Members of Congress are urging for increased funding to enhance security for nonprofit American Jewish communities and places of worship. This call for funding comes during a time of heightened tensions between Israel and Hamas, as well as a rise in antisemitism globally and in the U.S.
Representatives Ruben Gallego and Mike Lawler have submitted a bipartisan proposal to the House Appropriations Committee, requesting additional funding for FEMA’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). The aim is to protect these communities from targeted hate crimes and domestic terrorism.
The proposal follows a devastating surprise attack by Hamas-led militants in Israel, where over 1,300 Israelis lost their lives. Gallego stated that it is crucial to stand firm in defending Israel and ensuring that it receives the necessary resources for its defense.
The congressman emphasized the importance of addressing the rise in antisemitism both internationally and within the U.S. He urged bipartisan efforts to protect Jewish communities in America and called for bolstered funding to improve the security of religious institutions and provide a safe environment for worship.
The NSGP funding, which originates from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, can be utilized to enhance the security of nonprofits. This includes measures such as target hardening, strengthening the security of buildings to withstand attacks, and safeguarding organizational assets.
Given the increasing concern over antisemitism, there is a fear that places of worship, particularly synagogues, may become targets for terrorists. Lawler joins the call for increased funding to assist American Jewish communities and places of worship in enhancing their security measures.
In their letter to the House Appropriations Committee, Gallego and Lawler highlighted a 36% rise in antisemitic incidents across the U.S. in the past year, with an average of 10 incidents occurring daily. Out of the 589 incidents reported, Jewish institutions were the targets. The letter expressed concern that this disturbing trend may worsen in the coming weeks and months due to the recent terrorist attacks in Israel, which have fueled antisemitic rhetoric and hate speech in the U.S.
The congressmen argued for funding to be allocated to “vulnerable institutions” such as synagogues, Jewish community centers, and Jewish schools to protect them from potential terrorist attacks. Lawler condemned the “unprecedented” attack by Hamas and emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of American Jewish communities during this period of rising antisemitism.
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