JCPA: Next Steps in Fighting White Nationalism and Anti-Semitism

The following statement was submitted by the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA). 

It is with great sorrow, outrage, and resolve that we write this note to the field. We are so grateful to see you all respond with such compassion, thoughtfulness, and energy to the horrific shooting in Pittsburgh. More than 65 communities organized vigils and prayer services with more than 68,000 people in attendance (click here for details). The number of non-Jewish leaders, politicians, clergy, and ethnic leaders who have come to offer their words of support and solace is a testament to all the work that our network has done over many years.

Our gratitude goes out to Josh Sayles, JCRC Director in Pittsburgh, for all that he has done in recent days and will continue to do on the ground.

Over the past two years, we have seen an increase in hate-based violence, including anti-Semitic acts both here in the United State and abroad. Click here for ADL’s Report on "New Hate and Old: The Changing Face of American White Supremacy."

JCPA believes that the Pittsburgh massacre should galvanize an enhanced and sustained effort to create unity and fight against hate. The community relations model of building and maintaining bilateral relations and multilateral coalitions on issues of common concern has never been more important.

As follow-up to the Pittsburgh massacre, we have compiled some initial resources and recommendations. They are.....

Educate

Throughout the last year, JCPA has raised concerns about rising white nationalism by passing a Resolution on White Supremacy at JCPA's April 2018 Conference, as well as by organizing informational webinars:

 

"What is the Alt-Right (and What Should we do About Them)?" with Marilyn Mayo of the ADL, July 5, 2017. 

 

"Understanding and Responding to the White Supremacist Threat" with Joseph Levin of the Southern Poverty Law Center, September 27, 2017. 

 

"Special Briefing on Pittsburgh: White Nationalism and Anti-Semitism" with Eric Ward of the Western States Center, October 28, 2018.

Take Action

 

Attend Shabbat services this weekend and invite friends and colleagues from other faith and diverse communities to participate.
 

Ensure that public officials, racial/ethnic and religious leaders, and businesses denounce hate in all its forms. The more that mainstream voices on both sides of the aisle express their opposition, the more likely that such hate will return to the margins. Work with faith leaders and partners to educate and engage their grassroots communities, as well.
 

Support federal legislation to combat white supremacy and all forms of hate, including investing in countering violent extremism. We will have materials prepared soon.
 

The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act (S. 2148) is designed to enhance and expand the federal government’s counterterrorism efforts to prevent acts of domestic terrorism, particularly by white supremacists . Last year the US government halted funding for countering white supremacy. 

 

The NO HATE Act (S. 662) would improve hate crime reporting and strengthen victims’ rights.  

 

Advocate for state and local legislation that condemns hate and counters white supremacy.   
 

Remain active leaders in interfaith and intergroup coalitions. Now, more than ever, we must be fully engaged in our relationships with diverse partners, putting our principles of acceptance into action and showing that our vision for America can prevail.
 

Push for policies that promote inclusivity and justice, drowning out hatred in the process. By supporting comprehensive immigration reform, criminal justice reform, and hate crimes legislation, our positive aspirations for America can supplant the type of society that hate groups seek to bring about.