The Baltimore Jewish Council was found in 1939 in response to growing anti-Semitism in Europe. The BJC has local and national umbrella organizations. Local: THE ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore. National: The Jewish Council for Public Affairs. The Council represents Greater Baltimore area Jewish organizations and congregations on social, political, and humanitarian issues affecting Jews locally, nationally and worldwide. In fact, the BJC represents all Jewish organizations and congregations throughout Maryland. The BJC maintains strong support for security and safety of the State of Israel; it calls for freedom and human rights for the Global Jewish Family; it provides communal programs on the Shoah; it builds bridges and maintains relationships with ethnic, racial, religious and other groups. The BJC advocates for civil rights and stands against anti-Semitism and prejudice, and pursues social policies that enhance the quality of life for all.