We are seeing a terrifying rise in anti-Semitism across our nation. With each incident, our communal heart aches for the victims and their families — our fellow Jews in pain. When any Jew is hurt — in any community, anywhere in the world — we are all hurt. It is yet another scary time in history when our people are faced with adversity simply for being who we are.
We are also ready. Our Federation has implemented several strategies — and is working to create more — to combat hate against the Jewish people.
This past year, we created and published our Principles Against Antisemitism that clearly and comprehensively delineates what is and what is not tolerable to the Jewish community.
Seven years ago, with forethought and insight into our community’s needs, we created our Community Security Initiative (CSI). Serving as a single point of contact for critical incident coordination, information and intelligence sharing, safety and security training, and resources for all of Jewish Los Angeles, CSI is also credited with forming and maintaining the Federation’s close relationships with local law enforcement.
Our work with CSI enables L.A. Jewish institutions to apply for nonprofit security grants for which we help lobby through our lead role with The Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California (JPAC). Also through JPAC, the largest single-state coalition of Jewish organizations in the nation, we meet with key policymakers to fight hate and advocate for shared values that affect the citizens of California.
Lastly, our Community Engagement strategic initiative is dedicated to building relationships throughout the city so that we have supporters in good times and bad.
Our efforts to fight against anti-Semitism will continue into the new year and beyond. We are committed to the strength and vibrancy of the heartbeat of Jewish L.A. — now, and for the future.
May we all have a peaceful Shabbat and know no more sorrow,
Jay Sanderson
President & CEO
