Today the House adopted House Resolution 137, sponsored by Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-08), a resolution to honor the life and six decades of public service of Jacob Birnbaum. Often considered the father of the movement to liberate the Soviet Jewry, Mr. Birnbaum, has worked for more than six decades to free Soviet Jews from religious, cultural, and communal extinction. The resolution was adopted on a voice vote.

"Jacob Birnbaum is a true hero, and I am proud to call him a fellow New Yorker," said Rep. Nadler. "Born in Germany, Mr. Birnbaum’s family fled the Nazis. In 1946 after World War II, he devoted several years providing relief for younger survivors of the Nazi and Soviet totalitarian systems. Based on his experience with these survivors, when he settled in America years later he founded the Student Struggle for Soviet Jewry. This past December, Mr. Birnbaum celebrated his 80th birthday, and I thank my colleagues for honoring the life and work – the sixty years of public service – of this remarkable human rights activist. Indeed, even in his 81st year, Mr. Birnbaum continues to support groups engaged in the Jewish education of former Soviet Jews and their children. His dedication to his beliefs remains as strong as ever."