We share with many of you the deep concern at all the attention the so-called “National Day of Hate” is receiving. This is yet another example of how social media is contributing to the rise in antisemitism, this time by spreading and amplifying the activities of what is surely a very small group of people. However, we know that many Federations are getting calls from your communities about this issue, and we wanted to share some resources that might be helpful.

First, and most importantly, the cornerstone of Federations' response to the rise in antisemitism is security. Our partners at the Secure Community Network prepared this alert. It is important to note that SCN assesses that there is a very low risk of violence. Of course, the spread of the “Day of Hate” message on social media means that it could well inspire individuals who sympathize with the message to act. We cannot possibly know where such a person might be located (though of course all of our partners, including SCN, ADL and many local and regional networks, as well as federal and local law enforcement, are scanning the internet looking for any signs of trouble).

For this reason, we are also pleased to share that our LiveSecure initiative to ensure that every community has a professional security program led by its Federation is moving forward quickly. In the last year, 24 new security initiatives have been established across the Federation system, and many more are close to being launched. This brings the total of Federation based community security initiatives to 76, all of whom are alerted to today’s issue. As well, 13 existing programs have been strengthened in the past year either by adding new capability or expanding the geography they cover. This is essential, urgent work, and we thank each and every one of you who are working so hard to secure your communities.

It is also why we continue to work as a system in advocating for public funds to support the security of the Jewish community and other communities at risk. We are pleased that the Non-profit Security Grant program was increased by Congress to $305M for 2023, and we know that many states and localities are allocating funds as well in response to Federations’ government relations efforts. The growth of the community security initiatives leverages these public funds by making it possible for all our Jewish institutions to receive help in applying for these funds.

Beyond security, we know we must engage our communities in numerous ways. We must be in close touch with our local public officials, law enforcement, media, and other business, education and civic leaders. And, because this issue is spreading so fast on social media, we need to engage in this important arena as well. Please click here for a suite of resources that can be helpful as you prepare your community responses. We will also be circulating through our regular listservs good examples of what Federations and Community Relations Councils have prepared and used today. Finally, please do not hesitate to call and ask for help. Our public affairs and communications teams are standing by to quickly respond to any needs your Federations or other community partners have today. Please contact Adam Teitelbaum or Niv Elis if there’s anything we can do to help.

With best wishes for a peaceful Shabbat.