A Work of Mercy

New York Times

April 21, 1921

Hitherto the Jews have financed their own philanthropies, and with a liberality and skill which has been universally recognized. In behalf of those of their religion who are still suffering in the war-ridden districts of Europe they are now for the first time seeking oustide aid.

With the fate of Belgium and Serbia it was easy to sympathize. A nation’s territory was invaded and its citizens were making a united stand. The Jews have no fatherland, no means of uniting in the common defense. Yet from the outset, wherever the call came, they fought, and fought bravely, for the allied cause. Meantime, in the widely scattered lands the folk at home suffered as perhaps those of no other people, and their suffering has has in many localities long outlasted the war.

In Europe there are today more than 5,000,000 Jews who are starving or on the verge of starvation, and many are in the grip of a virulent typhus epidemic. An appeal has been issued throughout the world. The quota of New York City is $7,500,000. The drive will occupy the week of May 2-9, and will be based wholly upon the principle of sympathy and a common humanity.