spacer COMMISSION ON SOCIAL ACTION OF REFORM JUDAISM

Resolution adopted by the Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism, April 6-9, 1997 in
Washington, D.C.

Human Rights in East Timor

Background

Our sacred texts, as well as our historical experience, oblige us to speak out in defense of the
preservation of human rights for all peoples. On Passover, we are obligated to remember that we
were once slaves in the land of Egypt, and that God led us out of bondage with a mighty hand and
an outstretched arm. As we were redeemed from slavery, so must we help others on their journey
from oppression to freedom. It is in this spirit that we speak out against the deplorable human rights
violations in East Timor.

We express our outrage at violations of human rights in East Timor by the Indonesian military
occupying authorities and forces. We are dismayed with the role of the United States, which
supplied 90% of the weapons used by Indonesia in its 1975 invasion of East Timor, and which
continues to legitimize General Suharto's regime through its negotiations concerning the sale of
twenty advanced fighter aircraft.

We also congratulate Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo and Dr. Jose Ramos Horta upon their receipt of
the 1996 Nobel Peace Prize. Along with other communities of faith, we share the Nobel
Committee's hope that this award will spur efforts to bring a peaceful and just resolution to the
situation in East Timor, one recognizing the fundamental right of the people of that nation to
self-determination.

THEREFORE, the Commission on Social Action of Reform Judaism resolves to

1. Call upon the United States government to support international initiatives to end the devastating
human rights abuses in East Timor, and to cease military support to Indonesia until such a resolution
is actively pursued; and,

2. Urge our congregations to educate their congregants and the public on the gravity of the situation
in East Timor, and encourage our member congregations, in the spirit of Jewish tradition and Jewish
experience, to voice their commitment to and concern for the people of East Timor.


Contact: Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism
2027 Massachusetts Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20036 202-387-2800
e-mail: 74637.277@compuserve.com

Religious section menu
Search Religious pages

spacer