People passionate about advancing Jewish causes through advocacy and the political process should connect with Jewish Federations of North America and its network of 141 local Jewish Federations across the United States.

If you care about combating antisemitism, protecting Jewish institutions, supporting vulnerable families, strengthening the US-Israel relationship, or ensuring Jewish communities can thrive, advocacy is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference.

Jewish Federations of North America have served as the central coordinating body for Jewish community advocacy for more than a century, and unlike organizations focused on a single issue, they combine direct community services with policy advocacy across 141 local Federations coast to coast.

Through a growing national advocacy operation, including our flagship Public Affairs office in Washington, DC, Jewish Federations enable communities across North America to engage directly with the policymakers shaping the issues that matter most.

Federations’ strong presence in the nation’s capital brings together community leaders, policymakers, and advocates to advance shared priorities, build relationships, and coordinate action. It also gives local Federations of every size greater access to the resources and connections needed to make their voices heard. The office hosts delegations from over 50 communities every year, as well as briefings that connect Federation leaders directly with decision-makers. 

But advocacy doesn’t only happen in Washington. Jewish Federations and the associated network of Jewish Community Relations Councils they support advocate in state capitals, city halls, school districts, universities, and communities across North America. 

In the last year alone, Federations have organized dozens of advocacy days in state capitals and nurtured a close partnership with the National Association of Jewish Legislators (NAJL). 

In Canada, Jewish Federations’ advocacy arm is Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA). 

What Advocacy Issues Do Jewish Federations Focus On? 

Our work reflects both immediate community needs and long-term priorities shaping Jewish life.

Jewish Federations’ policy priorities include: 

• Securing the Jewish community, including government funding to protect synagogues, schools, JCCs, and camps, and providing greater resources to law enforcement 

• Combating antisemitism—including tackling drivers such as social media and AI—and strengthening community relations 

• Supporting Holocaust survivors, seniors, people with disabilities, and families in need through a strong social safety net 

• Strengthening the bipartisan US-Israel relationship 

• Expanding access to Jewish education and Holocaust education 

• Protecting religious freedom and democratic values 

That collective effort produces real results. Federation advocacy led to the creation and growth of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which helps houses of worship, schools, and other community institutions secure themselves; the Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program; important social safety net programs; strong bipartisan support for Israel; and other policies important to the Jewish community.

How Can Members of the Jewish Community Get Involved? 

Advocacy is not reserved for professionals or insiders. Through Jewish Federations, anyone can help make an impact.

Federations regularly sponsor advocacy fly-ins and missions to Washington, D.C., that bring community members, lay leaders, young adults, students, and supporters to meet directly with elected officials and policy leaders. Participants meet with Members of Congress, share stories from their communities, and advocate for policies that affect everything from Nonprofit Security Grant Program funding to human services to support for Israel.

These experiences give participants the chance to learn about the issues, build relationships, and speak up in a meaningful way. For many, it is the first time seeing how public policy shapes Jewish life. It is also when people realize how much impact one conversation can have.

 

What Are the First Steps to Getting Involved in Jewish Advocacy? 

Getting involved can start small and grow over time:

• Connect with your local Federation and ask how you can get involved in advocacy 

• Join an advocacy fly-in or mission 

• Sign up for action alerts 

• Meet with local elected officials 

• Attend a policy briefing 

• Invite others to participate 

• In Canada, connect with the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA)