Connecting you with Israel.
Baltimore Zionist District (BZD) uses its direct Israeli connection as a home base for the creation of cultural and political programs and educational activities which deal with all aspects of Zionism and modern Israeli life.
Nurturing the bonds between you and the State of Israel.
Zionism Today
BZD-Baltimore Zionist District is, as its name suggests, a Zionist organization. Today, unfortunately, anti-Israel propagandists and anti-Semites have tried to hijack the word ‘Zionism’ and transform it into a badge of shame or disgrace. We Zionists refuse to allow others to define us. As such, it is entirely appropriate to ask ourselves what is the purpose of Zionism?For the answer, we need look no further than to the American Zionist Movement for some insights.
Our Mission
"to advocate for Israel’s safety and security, foster understanding about challenges facing Israel and nurture the bonds between our local community and Israel."
Our History
As a Baltimore-based Zionist organization, BZD’s roots can be traced back at least 100 years! Few other Jewish organizations, locally or nationally, can boast that kind of longevity. Since its inception, we have been a proud and active member of the American Zionist Movement. We also continue to be represented at executive meetings of the World Zionist Organization. In 1994, BZD became an independent Zionist organization, the largest in the US.
Over the decades, a few BZD (and its predecessor organization Zionist Organization of America- Baltimore District) leaders distinguished themselves by rising to national prominence. Alleck A. Resnick became National ZOA President as did W. James Schiller who also rose to become National President, American Zionist Movement, as well as National Treasurer and Vice-President, Jewish National Fund. Ronald Weitzman served as National Treasurer of ZOA.
Meet our Staff
Meet our Board
President
Robert Slatkin
Vice-President
Steven Mackler
Secretary
Ed Hoffman
Treasurer
Ben Ness
Past-president
Leora Pushett
Chairman
Jim Schiller, CPA
Board members at large
Jay Bernstein, Atty.
Arnold Fruman
Edward Hiller, Atty.
Shlomo Turkel