What's Happening?
The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) is expanding its focus on advocacy and civic engagement to address antisemitism and ensure the safety of Jewish communities. During the JFNA General Assembly
in Washington, Executive Vice President Shira Hutt emphasized the need to combat not only physical threats but also social, political, and cultural challenges. The LiveSecure program, launched after the 2018 Tree of Life shooting, has provided security infrastructure to Jewish communities. The new initiative aims to strengthen civic engagement and build relationships with educators, business leaders, and public officials. Sen. John Fetterman highlighted the influence of social media in spreading antisemitic and anti-Israel sentiments among young people, stressing the importance of addressing these threats.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of JFNA's focus to include civic engagement reflects a proactive approach to combating antisemitism, which has permeated various aspects of public life. By fostering relationships and advocacy, the initiative seeks to create a more inclusive and secure environment for Jewish communities. The emphasis on civic engagement highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of antisemitism and building bridges across communities. This approach is crucial in countering the growing influence of social media in shaping public perceptions and attitudes towards Jewish communities and Israel.
What's Next?
JFNA's expanded focus on civic engagement will involve collaboration with Jewish community relations councils and other advocacy groups. The initiative will likely lead to increased efforts to engage with local communities and policymakers to address antisemitism and promote understanding. As the program develops, it will be important to assess its impact on community relations and security. The ongoing dialogue at the General Assembly, including speeches from national politicians, underscores the significance of addressing these issues at both local and national levels.
