What's Happening?
The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) is calling on Congress to increase funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program to $1 billion annually. This request comes in response to a rise in antisemitic incidents across the United States, including
a recent arson attack on Mississippi's largest synagogue. JFNA CEO Eric Fingerhut emphasized the need for more flexible and accessible funding during the organization's inaugural 'State of the Jewish Union' address in Washington. The current allocation for the program is $300 million for 2026, which is an increase from previous years but still falls short of the amount requested by Jewish leaders. Additionally, JFNA is advocating for an educational tax credit to support Jewish education, urging all states to participate in the school choice legislation that would provide tax incentives for scholarships for Jewish day schools and yeshivas.
Why It's Important?
The call for increased security funding highlights the growing concern over antisemitism in the United States. The rise in hate crimes against Jewish communities has prompted a significant response, termed 'The Surge,' with more Jews engaging in communal life and education. The proposed increase in funding aims to better protect Jewish institutions and communities, which face an 'antisemitism tax'—the financial burden of ensuring security. This situation underscores the broader societal challenge of addressing hate crimes and ensuring the safety of minority communities. The educational tax credit initiative also reflects a strategic effort to strengthen Jewish identity and support within the community, potentially influencing educational policy and funding at both state and federal levels.
What's Next?
JFNA plans to engage with state leaders during the National Governors Association summit in Washington to promote participation in the school choice legislation. This initiative aims to provide financial support for Jewish education through tax incentives. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the availability of resources for Jewish schools and families. Additionally, the response from Congress to the request for increased security funding will be crucial in determining the level of protection and support available to Jewish communities facing antisemitism.
