Since announcement of 77-year-old U.S. Senator Edward Kennedy's death from brain cancer on Tuesday, August 25, numerous statements of condolences and mourning have been issued by friends in the Jewish community. Among them:

American Israel Public Affairs Committee: AIPAC joins all Americans in mourning the loss of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, a staunch supporter of the U.S.-Israel relationship and a true and longstanding friend of America's pro-Israel community. During his more than four decades in the U.S. Senate, Sen. Kennedy consistently supported American assistance to Israel, particularly during the Jewish state's most trying times, in the wake of the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War. He led the fight against U.S. arms sales to Israel's enemies, spoke out forcefully against the Arab League boycott of Israel and was a fierce critic of the United Nations' isolation of the Jewish state; he urged his colleagues to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's undivided capital, and warned of the dangers of global terrorism.Sen. Kennedy became the leading champion for persecuted Soviet Jewry, advocating on behalf of refuseniks and those Jews wishing to leave the Soviet Union, personally raising their issues with Soviet leaders at every possible opportunity, and demanding that the United States provide loan guarantees to Israel to absorb Jewish refugees. Senator Kennedy's legacy of leadership on these issues and his lifelong support for one of America's closest allies are hallmarks of his historic career devoted to serving the best interests of the American people and our values. He will be sorely missed."

American Jewish Committee: "Senator Kennedy was a political giant, a man who devoted his life to deepening our historic commitment as a nation to the promise of America,” said AJC Executive Director David Harris. “The values of compassion for the less-fortunate, which Senator Kennedy passionately defended during nearly five decades in the Senate, shall be his lasting contribution to the country he loved.” Throughout his life, Harris noted, Senator Kennedy was a close and trusted friend of AJC and the Jewish people. “His support for the well-being of the State of Israel was always firm, as was his solidarity with vulnerable Jewish communities, particularly those persecuted in the former Soviet Union,” said Harris.“We joined with Senator Kennedy in his steadfast and principled pursuit of civil rights protections, immigration reform, and the struggle against anti-Semitism and racism,” said Harris. “With all Americans, we mourn his passing, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the grieving Kennedy family.”

American Jewish Congress: Senator Edward Kennedy was the Senator from Massachusetts for as long as most of us can remember. To say that he compiled a distinguished legislative record is to do violence to the language. His record on civil rights, education, reproductive freedom, separation of church and state, health care, labor and civil liberties, as well as foreign policy is unique in post World War II era politics. All Americans are better off, and our society is more just, because of his prodigious leadership efforts.  We at AJCongress worked with Senator Kennedy and his staff closely on civil rights and religious liberty matters, including, particularly, the Voting Rights Act, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.  Without question Senator Kennedy was a proud and far-sighted liberal. Yet on issue after issue he managed bi-partisan compromises that even at times when naked partisanship otherwise prevailed. That, too, is a testament to his unparalled contribution to our nation.  In 1980, AJCongress honored Senator Kennedy with its prestigious Stephen S. Wise Award. That award was evidently premature, for as much as Senator Kennedy had accomplished by 1980, was a mere prelude to what happened after.  We hope that his family and many friends and admirers find comfort in his record of service to the nation.

Anti-Defamation League: "Glen S. Lewy, ADL National Chair, and Abraham, H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:We mourn the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, a great American, a master legislator and a passionate champion of our nation's democratic values and fundamental commitment to equality and fair treatment for all. Throughout his nearly fifty years in the Senate, his was a voice of reason, principle and passion that cut to the core of the fundamental ideals and future of this nation, especially in the tumultuous and polarizing policy debates.Senator Kennedy's leadership on issues of voting reform, religious freedom, civil rights, hate crime protections and immigration reform was instrumental. He fought against anti-Semitism, racism, prejudice and bigotry of all kinds. He was a staunch supporter of Israel and an outspoken advocate for Soviet Jews. We extend our sincere condolences to the Kennedy family and hope they will take comfort from his enduring legacy."

U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer (Democrat, California): “I was heartbroken to hear of Senator Ted Kennedy’s passing and my deepest sympathies go out to Vicki, his children and the entire Kennedy family.I will always think of Senator Kennedy as the lion of the Senate. From his seat in the back of the beautiful Senate chamber, he used his powerful voice to speak out for the voiceless. He could always be counted on to champion justice, fairness and compassion – and to challenge all of us to do the same. Personally, I will miss Senator Kennedy’s warm and engaging presence, his bellowing laughter and the way he reached out to all senators in friendship. No one will ever be able to fill his shoes, but we must honor his extraordinary legacy by continuing his life’s work. The most fitting tribute we could give Senator Kennedy is to carry on his fight for a quality education for all our children, affordable health care that families can rely on, an economy that works for everyone and equal rights for all our citizens.”

Senator Benjamin Cardin (Democrat, Maryland): “Today, I join all Americans in mourning the death of Senator Edward M. Kennedy, one of the most influential and dedicated Senators of our time. Senator Kennedy was a legislator’s legislator who had the leadership, wisdom and profound understanding of complicated issues to accomplish great things for our nation. His passing leaves an enormous hole in the U.S. Senate. During Senator Kennedy’s 46 years in the Senate, he had a tremendous impact on the issues that have shaped our nation for almost a half century. His skills were key to the passage of legislation that has changed our nation forever, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Americans with Disabilities Act, Title IX, education reform and increases in the minimum wage. His work has made it possible for minorities, women and people with disabilities to achieve equality and equal rights. I served for two years on the Senate Judiciary Committee with Senator Kennedy and I consider him one of the most remarkable, outstanding leaders of our generation. Personally, I have lost someone who has been a mentor, a friend, and one of my heroes. The nation has lost a leader who fought to right wrongs, who worked to ensure that all Americans had a better tomorrow and who knew how to work across party lines to make important progress. I join my Senate colleagues in reaffirming our commitment to continue his life’s work and to make sure, as he so eloquently stated: ‘The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives and the dream shall never die.' The Kennedy family is in the thoughts and prayers of all Americans during this very difficult time.”

Bnai Brith International: "With the passing of Sen. Edward Kennedy, the nation has lost a stalwart champion of the disenfranchised. B’nai B’rith International mourns his passing. His tenacity in fighting for the underdog will long be remembered. Sen. Kennedy forged alliances across party lines – propelling him to an unprecedented effectiveness as a senator. For 46 years, Sen. Kennedy dominated issues that might have fallen through the cracks if not for his perseverance: Civil rights, voting rights, and of course, healthcare. As an organization working for comprehensive healthcare reform, B’nai B’rith will keenly feel the absence of his strong voice and guiding hand as lawmakers debate healthcare legislation. No one else had such an impressive record of looking out for the most vulnerable – children, the poor, and the elderly. Through his long legacy of achievement, Sen. Kennedy has left an indelible mark on this nation that should serve as the ultimate model of public service."

Congressman Steve Cohen (Democrat, Tennessee): “The United States has lost a great leader. Senator Kennedy influenced legislation affecting the oppressed, the poor, the disabled, the sick and countless students. He never lost those core values that he espoused in his presidential run and his Senate tenure -- even when he “sailed against the wind.” Senator Kennedy worked with Republicans, particularly Presidents Reagan, George H.W. and George W. Bush, and with Senator Orrin Hatch, to advance the causes he knew could make America better. On a personal note, I was proud to lead the efforts for Senator Kennedy’s 1980 presidential run in Shelby County, and serve as Kennedy delegate at that year’s Democratic Convention. I have treasured a photograph of him giving his famous speech about the dream never dying which sits on my desk. I was pleased to attend the birthday gala celebration for Senator Kennedy at the 2004 Democratic Convention held at the Boston Symphony Hall. Much to the Senator’s delight, he got a kick out of my distributing many of the “Kennedy for President in 1980” buttons that I still had. He joyfully directed the Boston Symphony. Senator Kennedy was a true statesman and worked to bring peace to Northern Ireland. I remember fondly seeing his trademark smile and humor in action when the Irish Taoiseach (prime minister) came to address a joint session of Congress. Senator Kennedy was a tireless advocate for comprehensive, affordable and quality health care, including access to mental health care. He led the charge on creating the CHIP that has provided millions of uninsured children the chance to start out life healthy. He fought to preserve the vital health care safety nets of Medicare and Medicaid that have helped seniors and low-income families have access to prescription drugs and doctors. In recent years, his dream was to make sure that all Americans have access to health care. Though he charted the course by which we all are sailing by today, I regret that he couldn’t captain the ship long enough to see his dream become a reality. I will miss Senator Kennedy most for his unwavering optimism and persistent fight to make tomorrow better than today. I will miss his leadership and counsel as Congress moves forward on debating the health care legislation that was so close to his heart. My thoughts are with his son, and my friend and colleague, Congressman Patrick Kennedy, and the entire Kennedy family.”

Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations—The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations expressed its condolences on the death of Senator Edward Kennedy, who served his country with such distinction. He was a lifelong friend of the American Jewish community with which he established close bonds, and a longstanding friend of Israel. Senator Kennedy served and was a leader in the United States Senate for 47 years. During his accomplished career, he was a staunch supporter of the special U.S.-Israel relationship. He opposed arms sales to Israel’s enemies in the 1980s and encouraged his fellow Senators to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. He also was a champion of Soviet Jewry, fighting for the freedom of many individuals and families from the former Soviet Union. “Senator Kennedy dedicated his life to the service of the American people. We are saddened by his loss and extend our condolences to his family and friends. He was a true friend of Israel who was not afraid to take on contentious issues and urged his colleagues to join him in his support for vital issues including Israel and freedom for Jews in the Soviet Union. His legacy of leadership will be felt for generations to come,” said Chairman Alan Solow and Executive Vice Chairman Malcolm Hoenlein.

Congressman Eliot Engel (Democrat, New York): "Senator Kennedy was truly one of our Senate statesmen, a man in the tradition of Daniel Webster and Henry Clay. His influence was vast, reaching every issue of import in his time. He was a voice for the dispossessed, a man of wealth who could see and empathize with the need of others. He was the last, and in many ways the best, of four incredibly talented brothers who made an indelible mark on America and the world. We have lost greatness today, and we will not see the likes of him again for a long time. "

Senator Russell Feingold (Democrat, Wisconsin): “Senator Kennedy was a hero of mine both before and after I came to the United States Senate.  Senator Kennedy was one of the greatest Senators in American history and serving alongside him in the Senate is one of the great honors of my life. His unyielding dedication to equality, justice and improving the lives of his fellow citizens was unmatched and his loss is immeasurable. He championed civil rights and worked to expand the rights of voters and working Americans.  Children are healthier and young Americans have more educational opportunities because of Senator Kennedy’s decades of service. And we will achieve real health care reform thanks to the groundwork he laid. Senator Kennedy’s legacy will live on in the Americans who walk through doorways he opened through his lifetime of countless achievements. Like the millions upon millions of Americans whose lives he touched, I am deeply saddened by his passing and my thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”

Senator Dianne Feinstein (Democrat, California): "My heart goes out to his wonderful wife Vicki and to his family. He was a colleague, an inspiration and a friend. Ted Kennedy dedicated his life to ensuring that America would be a better place. A better place for the poor, for children, for seniors – a better place for all Americans. I have had the distinct honor of serving on the Judiciary Committee with Ted Kennedy for 17 years, and have seen up close and personal his dedication to issues of civil rights, human rights, and basic fairness to all. He is irreplaceable, and leaves shoes that are so big that it will be difficult for a mere mortal to fill them."

Congressman Barney Frank (Democrat, Massachusetts): "Senator Kennedy’s death is an incalculable loss to the country. His leadership on so many issues, and his emphasis on reducing unfairness in our lives made him one of our greatest national assets. He was the most effective Senator in American history because of his great talent and the respect that other Senators had for him. The state of Massachusetts has lost our most effective advocate at the national level because Senator Kennedy never let his leadership on national issues in any way diminish his commitment to the people of Massachusetts. Finally, on a personal level having had the chance to work with him was a great privilege. His generosity of spirit and gift for friendship made being his colleague a joy. We have lost a great American hero."

Congresswoman Jane Harman (Democrat, California):"I met a young, handsome Ted Kennedy in Los Angeles at the 1960 Democratic Convention. I was a student at Smith College in Massachusetts in 1962 when he was elected to fill John Kennedy's Senate seat. I doubt anyone saw his incredible talent then–surely I didn't. But then I was lucky enough to work in the Senate as counsel to California Senator John Tunney, and to learn from Ted Kennedy and his incredible staff during his extraordinary service on the Senate Judiciary Committee in the 1970s, where his leadership on civil rights and voting rights showed a Watergate-wounded country a way forward. And over the

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years–especially after he married our Washington DC neighbor Vicki Reggie Raclan–we became friends. For one who loves public policy, more good policy bears his stamp than any other Member of Congress. His courage fighting a terminal illness this past year was an inspiration. Our country needs to pause–as we surely did when his brothers died–and to contemplate that this Kennedy probably leaves the greatest legacy of them all."

Congressman Paul Hodes (Democrat, New Hampshire):
“The nation grieves at the loss of a great leader. His passion for social justice, his commitment to making this country and the world a better place inspired millions. Senator Kennedy was truly a champion of the people. He was the standard bearer for an incomparable legacy of public service. He will be missed but he will be remembered. My thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to the entire Kennedy family.”

Senator Herb Kohl (Democrat,Wisconsin): "I'm deeply saddened by the loss of my close friend and colleague.  Senator Kennedy did so much good work for so many people.  He was an effective champion for education, health care and social justice, and a powerful voice for those who would otherwise have none.  Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ted Kennedy's family, friends and the many people whose lives he touched."

Senator Frank Lautenberg (Democrat, New Jersey):“Today is a sad day in America and all around the world. In addition to being a valued friend, Senator Kennedy was a mentor and one of the national leaders who inspired me to enter public life. This distinguished figure in American history served for decades as a tireless advocate for all those who most needed a voice in Congress and sought assurance that government was on their side -- from working families to minorities, from children to the sick. He brought all human emotion to his tasks in order to get things done, combining warmth, humor, and determination. He was persistent and tenacious, yet he always earned respect and a handshake from even his most ardent opponents. There is no question that Senator Kennedy's passion and accomplishments have left us with a better world and a better America. In memory of his legacy, we must recommit ourselves to working together to move America forward. He will be sorely missed but his work will carry on. I send my love and deepest condolences to all members of the Kennedy family.”

Senator Carl Levin (Democrat, Michigan): “Ted Kennedy was a joyous and powerful light in the life of every person touched by his life’s work. We will miss him terribly, as a leader and a colleague and a friend. His spirit will continue to lift the hearts of all who seek fairness and compassion in our lives. Barb and I send our sympathy and love to Vicki and the entire Kennedy family.”

Senator Joseph Lieberman (Independent, Connecticut):"Ted Kennedy was a gifted, inspiring, irresistible man, a great American public servant, and a real Master of the Senate. What he said of his brother Bob was true of him: Ted saw wrong and tried to right it, he saw suffering and tried to heal it. A passionate Democrat, he nonetheless was at the center of great bipartisan accomplishments over the last five decades of American public life. He knew when to stand and advocate and when to sit and negotiate. That's why he got so much done. I was inspired into public service by his brother John and so it was a real personal thrill and honor to work alongside Ted Kennedy in the U.S. Senate, to learn from him, and to laugh -- and occasionally roar -- with him. Hadassah and I mourn the passing of Ted Kennedy, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to Vicki, Kara, Patrick, and Ted Jr, and promise them we will keep Ted and them in our prayers."

Congresswoman Nita Lowey (Democrat, New York): “The passing of Senator Kennedy is a great loss for our nation. His record of accomplishment in Congress is legendary and unmatched, having spent his life fighting for those most in need – the poor, the disabled, minorities, women, children, and the civil rights of all Americans. Millions live in a healthier, more equal, and more just society due to his efforts to expand all Americans’ access to health care, education, jobs, and opportunity. Senator Kennedy’s warmth, thoughtfulness, and ability to connect personally made him beloved among his colleagues including his adversaries. He showed the same courage fighting his fatal illness that he demonstrated throughout his life in dealing with more personal tragedy than anyone should have to experience. I was honored to call Senator Kennedy a colleague and a friend. Honoring his legacy means selfless dedication to those less fortunate and valuing the nation and fellow citizens rather than narrow self-interest. I hope that spirit guides the efforts of Congress and advocates as we work to expand access to high-quality health care for all Americans.”

Congressman Jerrold Nadler (Democrat, New York): “I was very saddened to learn of Senator Kennedy’s passing last night. For nearly 50 years, Senator Kennedy dedicated his life to the service of his country and to the advancement of universal humanitarian values. His strong voice was a progressive voice ringing out through the many upheavals and crises of the last five decades. Senator Kennedy was a consistent champion for civil rights in our nation and human rights around the world, and he did more to fight for health care as a fundamental right than perhaps any other American. Like millions of others, I mourn the loss of this gifted leader and fighter for progressive ideals. My prayers and condolences go out to the Kennedy family.”

National Council of Jewish Women: NCJW President Nancy Ratzan released the following statement: "NCJW is deeply saddened by the death of Senator Edward Kennedy. We extend our condolences to his family, friends, and dedicated staff. Senator Kennedy's passionate voice and strong leadership on social justice issues will be sorely missed. Whether the cause was civil rights or economic justice, Sen. Kennedy was in the lead, providing not only the passionate public voice for the issues but the behind-the-scenes strategic leadership as well. NCJW was honored by his acceptance of our Social Action Award in March 2004, but more importantly we were honored to work by his side on so many critical issues: Family and Medical Leave, the Lilly Ledbetter Act, the Civil Rights Act, Voting Rights, the Americans with Disability Act, hate crimes prevention, the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, health care, the increase in the minimum wage, and numerous judicial nominations -- to name a few. Senator Kennedy's campaign has come to an end, but in his own words: 'For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die.' May his memory be a blessing for all of us who continue his important work."

National Jewish Democratic Council: Marc R. Stanley, Chairman of the National Jewish Democratic Council (NJDC), released the following statement: NJDC joins the country in mourning the loss of the "lion of theSenate." Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) was widely viewed as one of the most effective legislators of our time. Kennedy was a great friend of the Jewish community and a tireless champion of social justice issues; our
thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this
difficult time. Kennedy dedicated much of his life to ensuring that affordable health care is available for all Americans. The greatest tribute that we can bestow is to thoughtfully, but urgently, enact comprehensive health insurance reform.

Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism: Rabbi David Saperstein, Director, issued the following statement: "Today we mourn the passing of Senator Ted Kennedy. For nearly half a century, Sen. Kennedy was the heart of the U.S. Senate. As a champion of the poor, the ill, the downtrodden, the very old and the very young, Sen. Kennedy’s unwavering passion for and dedication to imbuing the laws of the United States with justice and equality truly embodied the essence of social justice that the Reform Jewish Movement values. Throughout his years in office, Sen. Kennedy played a key role in passing legislation that has bettered the lives of millions of Americans, championing such bills as the Voting Rights Act, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (one of the most important religious liberty bills in American history), the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Mental Health Parity Act, the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, and countless others, almost all strongly supported by American Jewry. Few legislators, if any, have left behind such a rich legacy. Sen. Kennedy was a devoted supporter of Israel and Soviet Jewry and a close ally of the American Jewish community and of the Reform Jewish community in particular, often partnering on social justice efforts with American Jewish organizations and leaders. Sen. Kennedy was elected in 1962, the same year the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism opened its doors as a voice of social justice in the nation’s capital, thus beginning a long friendship with the Reform Movement and our leaders. Sen. Kennedy’s guidance over the years has been indispensable to our work, and my personal friendship with him was one of the great blessings of my life. Sen. Kennedy told us at the end of his Presidential campaign in 1980, “For all those whose cares have been our concern, the work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream never dies.” Let us take that as our charge, as the best way to honor the memory of this remarkable champion.

Senator Bernie Sanders (Independent, Vermont): Ted Kennedy will go down in history as one of the giants of the U.S. Senate and one the most accomplished legislators in American history. He will also be remembered, by those who knew him, as an extremely warm and caring human being whose public service was a brilliant reflection of his love and devotion to his country, his friends and his family. As a member of the Senate health and education committee, chaired by Senator Kennedy, I was always impressed by his intelligence, knowledge and seriousness of purpose. His career in public service was driven by a deep sense of compassion and a belief that, in this great country, every American should be entitled to quality health care, education and other basic needs as well as equal justice under the law. Ted Kennedy devoted his lifetime to protecting those most in need, and tens of millions of Americans have been the beneficiaries. His absence from the Senate leaves an enormous void. His colleagues and the nation will miss him greatly.”


Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (Democrat, Florida): "I was deeply saddened this morning when I learned of the death of Senator Edward Kennedy. Americans have lost a giant in public service, someone who was never too big to reach out and lift someone else up. For me personally, this occurred when as a freshman in the House of Representatives, Senator Kennedy graciously gave me words of encouragement when I was asked to testify at the Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing of Justice Samuel Alito. Later that year, he took the time to counsel me on the best way to move my pool safety legislation through the Senate. I was grateful and personally moved that this pillar of the Senate would take the time to help a brand new member of the House of Representatives get her bill passed and save the lives of young children. Senator Kennedy dedicated his life to improving the lives of others, and dedicated his entire career and his final months of life to crafting health care legislation that he described as 'the cause of his life,' so that 'every American -- north, south, east, west, young, old -- will have decent quality health care as a fundamental right and not a privilege.' When the time comes that each of us approaches the end of our time here on Earth and we look back over what we've done for others and how we've made the world a better place, we can only hope to come close to the record of selflessness and dedication that Senator Kennedy showed during his own life. Our country has lost one of its brightest stars. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family--to his wife, Vicki, his children Ted Jr., Patrick and Kara, his grandchildren and his extended family."

Simon Wiesenthal Center: "The Simon Wiesenthal Center joins all Americans in mourning the death of Senator Ted Kennedy, one of the giants of the United States Senate who often took up the cause of those who were left out and forgotten," said Rabbi Marvin Hier, founder and dean of the Simon Wiesenthal Center. Senator Kennedy was also a steadfast and loyal friend of the State of Israel and the Jewish Community," Hier added. "The Center extends its deepest condolences to the Kennedy family," he concluded. Senator Kennedy was honored by the Wiesenthal Center at a New York gala in 1987. The enclosed Wiesenthal Center archive photo is also on display at the Kennedy Memorial Library in Boston.

Senator Arlen Specter (Democrat, Pennsylvania): “Senator Kennedy made historic contributions on civil rights, health care, education, the Judiciary, labor law, immigration, and virtually all facets of life in America. Working with him on the big issues of our era was a real privilege.”

Congressman Henry A. Waxman (Democrat, California):“Senator Kennedy was a legislative giant.  He devoted his career to improving the health and welfare of the American people, especially the downtrodden.  We will sorely miss his leadership and his friendship.  I extend my deepest sympathies to the Kennedy family.  I join with them and the entire nation in mourning his passing.”

Congressman Robert Wexler (Democrat, Florida): "I was deeply saddened to learn that Senator Ted Kennedy passed away late last night, and my thoughts and my prayers are with the Kennedy family during this incredibly difficult time. Senator Kennedy was a devoted public servant whose work in the United States Senate touched the lives of all Americans. He was instrumental in ensuring voting and civil rights for minorities, enacting equal opportunities for women in education, athletics, and the workplace, preventing discrimination against Americans with disabilities, providing millions of Americans with affordable health insurance, and in countless other landmark legislative achievements. As we mourn the loss of Senator Kennedy and honor his many legislative accomplishments, we must all to work to ensure that his ideals and values live on. His commitment to justice, equality, and opportunity for all Americans must be remembered as we work to rebuild America’s economy and ensure all of our citizens have access to quality, affordable health care."

Zionist Organization of America: Senator Kennedy had a long and distinguished career in the U.S. Senate where he was an influential and effective legislator on health care, civil rights, education and immigration reform.  Senator Kennedy played an important role in advocating for Soviet Jewry, helping to gain the release of many Soviet refuseniks, including Natan Sharansky. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to Senator Kennedy, calling him “an American patriot and one of Israel’s greatest friends.”  Israel’s Foreign Minister, Avigdor Lieberman, praised Kennedy as “a great friend to Israel and to the Jewish people.” In expressing his condolences, the ZOA’s National President, Morton A. Klein, described Senator Kennedy as “a friend to Israel and one of the most powerful lawmakers in the history of our country whose legislative achievements have had an impact on the lives of all Americans.”