Letter from Weizmann September 1, 1932, to Zionist journalist Aron G. Hermoni (1884-1960).

Translation From German:

“I thank you for your letter which reached me here. I read the second paragraph with great interest. Of course, you will be decried a ‘traitor,’ but that does not change the truth of what you have spoken. You are quite right with the idea for a good French-Jewish newspaper, I will try to see how I can help now in that matter. I do not have control over funds of this nature, but I will give the Plan serious thought. I hope to be in Paris on the 20th of the month (Hotel George V). Perhaps you will have the great kindness to call me on the morning of the 20th. Then we can set a time to have a discussion; maybe we can attract some of our Paris friends. I am staying in Paris for only two days, but that is enough for a discussion. In the meantime, I send you my warmest regards…”

After teaching chemistry at the University of Geneva, Weizmann moved to England and joined Manchester University. There, he formed the Manchester School, a group of Zionists dedicated to spreading information about Zionism through publications. As president of the Jewish Agency for Palestine and the World Zionist Organization, Weizmann played a key role in persuading the British cabinet to endorse a Jewish settlement in Palestine.

‘Les Juifs’ (The Jews), a historically significant French Jewish journal, holds a special place among the Jewish journalistic efforts to counter the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe and France. It emerged in 1933 amid the rise of the Nazi Party to power and found crucial support from Chaim Weizmann.

The letter is a response to Hezroni’s requests for help in funding the paper. Weizmann acknowledged the journal’s importance: ‘You are quite right with the idea for a good French-Jewish newspaper.’ Although immediate resources were scarce, he stated, ‘I do not have control over funds of this nature, but I will give the plan serious thought.’ Despite challenges, Weizmann committed to exploring avenues and arranged a meeting in Paris to craft a comprehensive plan. Not long after, the journal was established.

This rare letter from Weizmann in 1932 serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of individuals like him, who recognized the importance of establishing new platforms for expression and activism against the anti-Semitic rise in Europe.

Weizmann wrote our letter in blue ink from the Catalonian Hotel Estrach. Lightly folded and creased. In very fine condition.

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