BJC STATEMENTS
Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on U.S./Israeli Military Action Against Iran
The Baltimore Jewish Council stands with the United States and Israel and their actions against the threats posed by the Iranian regime, and we pray for a swift resolution to the military hostilities that results in a lasting peace across the region.
Iran’s support of worldwide terrorism is well-documented, including its financial and material support for terrorist groups waging war for decades on both Israel and the United States. We have also repeatedly witnessed the brutal and authoritarian way that the Iranian leadership has suppressed the freedom and rights of its own people. Eliminating the most dangerous weapon capabilities of the Iranian regime will make the world a safer place.
We pray for the safety, strength, and well-being of our brothers and sisters in Israel, the extraordinary members of the American and Israeli militaries who are involved in this operation, and everyone across the Middle East who finds themselves threatened by Iran’s retaliatory attacks. Our thoughts are particularly focused on the many Marylanders who are in Israel at this time.
Over the past hours, we have heard from our partners in law enforcement, government, and faith communities, sharing their concerns for the safety of our Jewish communities. We are grateful for their support and their commitment to help protect our synagogues, our schools, and our homes.
The Baltimore Jewish Council stands in solidarity with Israel and the United States.
Am Yisrael Chai
February 28, 2026
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Immigration Enforcement and Recent Tragic Events
More than 20 years ago, the Baltimore Jewish Council adopted a comprehensive policy position on immigration that included this declaration:
“We reject mass deportations for [undocumented] immigrants who have resided in the United States for an extended period of time. The forcible expulsion of millions of men, women and children would cause incalculable bitterness and division within this nation and would be utterly devastating to the image of America abroad as a champion of human rights.”
Our long-standing policy is rooted in the history of the Jewish people. As we noted in adopting that 2004 policy position:
“Migration has been a central element of the Jewish experience since biblical times when famine forced the Jewish people to flee Canaan and resettle in Egypt. Leviticus 19:33 commands, ‘When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall not wrong him.’ This experience has been mirrored in American-Jewish life with the emigration of Jews to the United States in search of religious freedom and economic opportunity. As a reflection of our history, and based upon the biblical imperative to welcome the stranger, the American Jewish Community has long advocated for fair and just immigration and refugee policies.”
With this history in mind, the Baltimore Jewish Council joins with many of our nation’s Jewish organizations, rabbis, and faith partners in expressing our outrage about what we are seeing in communities across the country.
It is both shocking and heartbreaking to see the violence with which the Department of Homeland Security is enforcing American immigration law, as well as the intimidation, harassment, and even killing of nonviolent protesters by federal law enforcement officers. It must end.
Judaism believes that a society that is fair, just, and equitable for all is vital. It is therefore incumbent upon our federal government to quickly and effectively address violations and violators in a manner that preserves public trust, prevents escalation and loss of life, and achieves justice and equity for all. Efforts must be made to increase transparency and accountability — values that build community trust, improve confidence, and ultimately heal wounds. The Baltimore Jewish Council is committed to fighting for the right of all people to live without fear of government or law enforcement so that trust is restored in the institutions we rely on for our safety.
The right to protest and speak freely are fundamental American rights, protected by the U.S. Constitution. We call on federal authorities to stop responding to nonviolent protests and civil disobedience with violence. Public safety and civil liberties are critical goals of our nation. We must pursue both in a manner consistent with the rule of law and our basic human values.
We remain dedicated to the idea that our nation needs immigration reform – for the immigrants and refugees who are already here, and for those who wish to make a better life in America. We also support a strong border, managed through the proper and fair application of our laws.
The conclusion of our long-standing policy position remains just as relevant today as when we adopted it over 20 years ago:
“We call on federal and state lawmakers, the Jewish Community and all Americans concerned about the country’s future to recommit to the complex process of developing a comprehensive proposal to reform United States immigration laws that will ensure that our immigration system is secure, more humane, and free from stereotyping and xenophobia.”
January 27, 2026
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Statement from the Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated regarding Terrorist Attack on Hanukkah Celebration in Australia
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated are shocked, saddened and outraged by today’s terrorist attack against the Australian Jewish community during a celebration of Hanukkah.
Thousands of members of the Jewish community had gathered on Bondi Beach for a joyous celebration of the beginning of the holiday and the Hanukkah miracle of light defeating darkness. The loss of at least 11 lives as a result of the attack, as well as many more injured, is a terrifying reminder of the growing antisemitism that our Jewish communities face around the world.
Antisemitism, hate and violence have no place in society – here or anywhere. We must speak out against all forms of antisemitism. Like the Maccabees whose efforts we celebrate during these eight days of Hanukkah, we stand up today as a proud Jewish community. We must not allow hate to interfere with living our lives as Jews.
While there is no indication of any current specific threat to our community or our institutions, we are closely coordinating with our partners in law enforcement to remain vigilant. On this sad day, we are once again reminded of the important task ahead not only to protect our community but to build relationships and educate our partners about the rise of antisemitism and hate.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Jewish community of Australia, and we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of all of the victims.
May their memories be for a blessing.
December 14, 2025
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on the Ceasefire Agreement and Release of Hostages
The Baltimore Jewish Council cautiously celebrates the announcement of a signed agreement for the release of the final hostages held by Hamas for the past two years, as well as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
We are grateful for the leadership of President Trump and the American and Israeli negotiating teams in pushing through this agreement, as well as the many Arab and Muslim nations that have joined the United States in applying critical pressure on Hamas to sign on.
Starting with the numerous lives lost on October 7th from the brutal attack by Hamas on Israeli soil, too many lives – both Israeli and Palestinian – have been lost over the past two years. During this time, Israel’s military has secured major gains against its neighboring enemies, inflicting significant setbacks on the fighting capabilities on Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iran. But the costs to Israeli soldiers, their families, and the broader nation have been significant.
We know that the hostages being released as part of this agreement will have suffered immeasurable trauma over the past two years, and we sadly recognize that many of the individuals who are to be returned through this agreement are no longer living.
We also cannot ignore the surge of antisemitism – both in the United States and around the world – that has occurred since the Hamas attack. We fear that these forces of hate, once unleashed, will persist and even worsen. All of us must join together to stand against antisemitism and hatred.
We now call on the United States, the international community, Israel, and the Palestinian leadership to ensure that each phase of this agreement moves forward. The tremendous destruction and suffering from two years of war must come to an end. We are hopeful that responsible leaders on all sides can use this agreement to reach an enduring peace that will ensure Israel’s safety and security.
The Baltimore Jewish Council stands in solidarity with Israel and Israel’s right to defend itself.
Am Yisrael Chai
October 9, 2025
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Surging Antisemitism and Hate Across Our Community
As students return to classrooms and campuses this fall and we continue to see an unrelenting escalation in antisemitism across our region, the Baltimore Jewish Council calls on our faith partners, our neighbors, and our elected leaders to join us in standing up to all acts of hatred against Jews.
Too many of our children – whether they’re in elementary school lunchrooms or college dorms – are enduring acts of antisemitism, big and small. Too many of our synagogues, our schools, our businesses, and our homes have been targeted with graffiti and other destructive acts. And while we deeply respect the free speech guarantees of the First Amendment, too many public demonstrations, rallies, classroom lectures and social media posts have crossed the line from protected language to hate speech against Jews.
We are seeing this surge in antisemitism create an environment for violent and deadly acts against the Jewish community – with the fatal shootings outside the Jewish Museum in Washington D.C. and the firebombing attack at a peaceful Jewish march in Colorado being the most recent examples. Despite making up roughly 2% of the U.S. population, Jews were targets in roughly 16% of all reported hate crimes last year, according to the FBI. Nearly 70% of all religion-based hate crimes targeted Jews, both here in Maryland and across the United States.
We are not so naïve as to think that acts of antisemitism will never occur in our communities. The challenge for everyone – our institutional leaders, our partners in different faith communities, our neighbors, our educators, our elected officials at the local, state and federal levels – is how we as a society respond to these acts. There should be no tolerance for antisemitism. Period. We call on all elements of our Baltimore community to join in the fight to condemn acts of hatred and violence.
The Baltimore Jewish Council, which was founded in 1939 as the Baltimore Jewish community’s response to rising antisemitism prior to World War II, will continue to lead our fight against antisemitism, working in partnership with The Associated’s newly launched Center for Countering Antisemitism and Hate. We will educate. We will advocate. And we will help ensure that our Jewish community remains safe and secure, in partnership with our allies in law enforcement and elected office.
The Baltimore Jewish Council has a long history of standing in allyship with our fellow communities whenever they are subjected to acts of hate. We will not waver in that commitment. Now is the time that we need others to stand up with us. This unprecedented outpouring in hatred against Jews – a surge that began in 2017 with the march in Charlottesville and accelerated following the terrorist attack against Israel on October 7, 2023 – must be reversed. It will take all of us, Jews and non-Jews alike, to stand up together.
September 9, 2025
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Israel’s Defensive Actions Against Iran
The Baltimore Jewish Council stands with Israel and its precise, defensive actions against Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs and other threats posed by the Iranian regime.
Iran’s support of worldwide terrorism is well-documented, including its financial and material support for terrorist groups waging war on Israel.
We pray for the safety, strength, and well-being of our brothers and sisters in Israel, as well as all of the members of the IDF and Mossad, as they prepare for responses from Iran and its terrorist proxies. We also continue to pray for the well-being and safe release of the hostages who have been held by Hamas in Gaza for more than 600 days.
The Baltimore Jewish Council stands in solidarity with Israel and Israel’s right to defend itself.
Am Yisrael Chai
June 13, 2025
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Statement on the Murder of Two Israel Embassy Staff Members
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore are shocked, saddened and outraged by the murder of two Israeli Embassy staff members outside an event hosted by the American Jewish Committee at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington Wednesday evening.
The Israeli Embassy identified the victims as a young couple, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim. Tragically, Yaron had intended to propose marriage to Sarah next week in Jerusalem, according to the Israeli Ambassador. Two lives full of promise that were taken away much too soon.
Law enforcement officials say that the shooting suspect chanted “Free, free Palestine” after he was taken into custody. Antisemitism, hate and violence have no place in our free and democratic society. We must speak out against all forms of antisemitism.
While there is no indication of any current specific threat to our community or our institutions, we are closely coordinating with our partners in law enforcement to remain vigilant. Unfortunately, violent acts of antisemitism like this one are one of the reasons why the Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated invest so many resources into security for our community, and we are grateful that the state and federal governments assist with security grants to our institutions that are at risk of hate crimes. On this sad morning, we are once again reminded of the important task ahead not only to protect our community but to build relationships and educate our partners about the rise of antisemitism and hate.
Our thoughts and prayers are with our friends at the Israeli Embassy and the American Jewish Committee, and we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Yaron and Sarah.
May their memories be for a blessing.
May 22, 2025
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Today’s Ceasefire Agreement and Release of Hostages
The Baltimore Jewish Council welcomes today’s release of hostages held by Hamas and other terrorists in Gaza for nearly 500 days, as well as the start of an extended pause in fighting that will hopefully lead to lasting peace and security.
Since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, our Baltimore community has prayed for the safe return of the more than 250 men, women, and children who were taken hostage that day. We have mourned with our friends, families and all of Israel each time we learned of another hostage who had been killed in captivity, and each time we learned of an Israeli soldier killed in the quest to bring the hostages home safely.
We know that the hostages being released as part of this agreement will have suffered immeasurable trauma over the past 15 months, and we sadly recognize that many of the individuals who are to be returned through this agreement are no longer living.
We are deeply appreciative that the outgoing administration of President Biden and the incoming administration of President-elect Trump were able to set aside their differences and cooperate to move forward with this incredibly important agreement.
We now call on the United States and the international community to ensure that each phase of this agreement moves forward and that all of the remaining hostages are released as soon as possible. The tremendous destruction and suffering from more than a year of war must come to an end. We are hopeful that responsible leaders on all sides can use this agreement to negotiate for an enduring peace that will ensure Israel’s safety and security.
The Baltimore Jewish Council stands in solidarity with Israel and Israel’s right to defend itself.
Am Yisrael Chai
January 19, 2025
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Baltimore Jewish Council Endorses Maryland’s Reproductive Rights Ballot Question
The Baltimore Jewish Council’s (“BJC”) long-standing policy and support to protect reproductive rights is rooted in commitment to individual autonomy through the expression of our religious principles.
The BJC has been clear since adopting a policy statement in 1985: “The Baltimore Jewish Council opposes government interference with the decision of a woman, in voluntary consultation with her family, her doctor, or her clergy, to determine all aspects of her reproductive life.” Jewish law is also clear that when the life of the mother is at stake, Jewish law not only permits, but also actually compels, the mother to abort the fetus to save her own life.
Maryland’s proposed Constitutional amendment aligns with BJC’s principles, confirming the right to reproductive liberty and provides the State may not, directly or indirectly, deny, burden, or abridge the right unless justified by a compelling State interest achieved by the least restrictive means.
Given the alignment with the BJC’s long-standing community consensus policy, the BJC supports passage of the amendment and encourages a “yes” vote on Question 1.
September 24, 2024
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement Regarding Campus Protests
The Baltimore Jewish Council stands strongly with Israel and with our Jewish students, faculty, and staff on college campuses. Jewish students, staff, and faculty should not have to live, learn, or work in an atmosphere of hate, nor should they have to fear for their safety.
As we see encampments and demonstrations across several of our area college campuses, it is important for all of us to keep in mind that these protests involve a small minority of students on each campus. The BJC and The Associated are in regular contact with the campus Hillels and the leadership at these schools, offering support to our Jewish students, providing guidance on security issues, and sharing our concerns about what is taking place in the encampments, demonstrations, and student government resolutions.
We appreciate those schools that have been proactive in enforcing campus rules that balance the expression of free speech with the right to an educational environment free from discrimination. When student activism is disruptive to learning, threatening to student safety, or contains antisemitic and other hate speech, it has no place on our campuses. We are in awe of the phenomenal job that our Hillel professionals and volunteers are doing to advocate for the interests of the Jewish campus communities, as well as the work of other on-campus groups which support Jewish life. As we head toward college graduation season, we hope that the small number of protesters do not ruin what is supposed to be a joyous family celebration for years of hard work by so many students, both Jewish and non-Jewish.
May 9, 2024
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement about the Iranian Attack on Israel
The Baltimore Jewish Council condemns this weekend’s unprecedented attack on Israel by Iran and expresses our deep appreciation for the strong commitment of the United States and our allies who are helping to defend Israel against this threat.
The ironclad U.S.-Israel partnership was critical to repelling the attack. Stopping hundreds of Iranian drones and missiles, which were intended to inflict mass casualties and destruction across Israel, is nothing short of a miracle. It is now more important than ever for the United States to support Israel and its people. We are grateful to President Biden, his administration, and the many Congressional leaders from both parties who are standing strong with America’s democratic ally. Congress must move forward quickly with the unconditional aid package that Israel needs to protect its people. Israel’s enemies are looking for signs of weakness in America’s support, and we call on our elected leaders to stand unified and strong as Israel faces great threats from Iran and its proxies.
We pray for the young girl who was injured in this weekend’s Iranian attack, as well as the thousands across the region who have been killed and injured since Hamas launched its attack on Israel six months ago. We continue to call for the swift return of the hostages still being held in Gaza and hold in our hearts their families and loved ones anxiously waiting for their release.
We also want to thank our many local partners in law enforcement and elected leadership who have reached out this weekend and taken steps to ensure that our Jewish communities remain safe and secure.
Our community stands in solidarity with Israel.
Am Yisrael Chai
April 14, 2024
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Bipartisan National Support for Israel
The Baltimore Jewish Council expresses deep gratitude to our national leadership for its strong bipartisan support of Israel, the Jewish people, and the U.S.-Israel relationship following the unprecedented terrorist invasion of Israel.
President Biden’s forceful condemnation of Hamas and the ensuing surge of antisemitism and hate is a powerful reminder of the importance of America’s moral leadership in the world. The President’s bold trip to Israel in the midst of the war is a clear statement that Israel has not just the right to defend itself, but an obligation to strike back against terrorists who slaughtered hundreds of innocent civilians and kidnapped approximately 200 children and young adults, parents and grandparents, soldiers and others.
The road ahead in Israel’s war with Hamas will undoubtedly become more difficult, and there will likely be the tragic loss of many more Israeli and Palestinian lives. We appreciate the willingness of the President and members of Congress to wait for the facts before jumping to conclusions, as seen in their agreement with Israel’s compelling evidence that the recent explosion near a hospital in Gaza was caused by an errant terrorist rocket.
Notwithstanding current legislative challenges, we are hopeful that Congress can find a way forward swiftly, and on a bipartisan basis, to deliver the resources that Israel needs to protect itself and its traumatized citizens. The destruction of Hamas in Gaza will ultimately mean better lives for both Palestinians and Israelis, hopefully bringing the entire region closer to peace.
Am Yisrael Chai
October 20, 2023
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Terrorist Invasion of Israel
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore are horrified by this weekend’s terrorist attacks and invasion of Israel.
Timed for exactly 50 years after the attack on Israel in the Yom Kippur War, and in the midst of the holidays of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, the Hamas terrorists have killed hundreds, wounded thousands, and taken an unknown number of civilians and soldiers hostage. Our hearts are utterly broken as we watch the news and worry about the safety of family and friends in our sister city of Ashkelon and across Israel.
We stand in firm support of Israel as it defends itself against this terrorist assault and provides security for its citizens, and we are grateful for the strong commitments to Israel made by our national, state, and local leadership. We also appreciate our law enforcement partners who have stepped up their monitoring and protection of our institutions and communities.
We pray for the recovery of the wounded and the swift return of those kidnapped by Hamas. We mourn those who lost their lives during these attacks. May their memories be for a blessing.
Am Yisrael Chai
October 8, 2023
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Israeli Democracy
The Baltimore Jewish Council reaffirms our deep and abiding love of Israel and the core democratic values that are the heart of the bond between the United States and Israel. At the same time, that love compels us to express our concern about the current turmoil regarding suggested changes to the relationship between the Knesset and the Supreme Court.
As supporters of Israel, we wish to acknowledge that as the only thriving democracy in the Middle East, it is only in Israel that such a debate can happen freely and openly. We are hopeful that such debate will be civil and peaceful and will allow our brothers and sisters in Israel to determine together the manner in which their country will be governed at the legislative and judicial levels.
We recognize that there are many different views on this issue within our community, and we fear that the hyperbole and emotion on all sides are exacerbating those differences. We urge everyone to tone down the rhetoric, take the time to learn more from the abundant available resources, and – most importantly – remember that all of us share a collective goal for a thriving Israel.
Israel’s well-earned reputation as the only thriving democracy in the Middle East is at risk, and our love of Israel forces us to speak out. For 75 years, the shared democratic values of Israel and the United States have formed the foundation of a deep and unwavering relationship.
February 23, 2023
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Baltimore Jewish Council and Associated Statement on Thwarted Attack on Suburban Baltimore Energy Infrastructure
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated want to express our thanks to our law enforcement partners for their efforts thwart an attack on energy infrastructure in the Baltimore area planned by two neo-Nazis.
The arrests remind us that extremist hate and domestic terrorism remain an ongoing and growing threat to our communities. Similarly, we have seen a steady rise in antisemitic incidents here in Maryland and across our nation.
The investments that we make in our community’s collective security – from personnel to cameras to other infrastructure – are so important, and we value the work of our federal, state, and local elected officials to help provide financial resources.
Together, all Marylanders must stand vigilant against hate and extremism in all forms. Fighting hate requires the collective work of our entire community – law enforcement, elected officials, nonprofit entities, faith partners, and each of us as individuals.
We applaud our law enforcement partners for proactively preventing what could have been a tragedy.
February 6, 2023
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Reproductive Rights
The Baltimore Jewish Council’s position in support of reproductive freedom is clear: “The Baltimore Jewish Council opposes government interference with the decision of a woman, in voluntary consultation with her family, her doctor, or her clergy, to determine all aspects of her reproductive life.” Jewish law is also clear that when the life of the mother is at stake, Jewish law not only permits, but also actually compels, the mother to abort the fetus to save her own life.
This policy was approved by the BJC Delegate Assembly on October 14, 1985.
This community consensus statement was adopted nearly 40 years ago by the Baltimore Jewish Council, and it continues to govern our actions. The Baltimore Jewish Council does not support a blanket ban on abortion.
While Maryland legislators have enshrined many protections of reproductive rights into law, the Baltimore Jewish Council will continue to support governmental efforts to protect reproductive rights in accordance with our long-standing policy.
June 24, 2022
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Statement on Escalating Violence in Israel by the Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore are alarmed by the recent escalation in violence across Israel. We condemn the willful incitement by the Palestinian Authority and Hamas that is instigating both the violence and unrest in Jerusalem and the continuing barrage of rocket attacks on Israel from Gaza. We stand in solidarity with Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorists. We also remain committed to ensuring that people of all faiths have safe access to the holy sites of Israel.
Our thoughts are with those in the areas impacted, including our friends and partners in our sister city of Ashkelon, and we pray for their safety. We send condolences to the family and friends of everyone who has been killed in this escalating violence, including the two women in Ashkelon. May their memories for be a blessing.
We hope that peace can be quickly restored to the region.
May 11, 2021
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Baltimore Jewish Community Mourns the Death of Senate President Emeritus Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
On behalf of the Baltimore Jewish Community and The Associated, the Baltimore Jewish Council mourns the death of Senate President Emeritus Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr.
During his 50 years in public service and more than three decades leading the Maryland Senate, President Miller played a significant role in virtually every legislative achievement in Maryland. His commitment to education led to significant funding enhancements for children in our schools, as well as higher education.
Throughout our many meetings with President Miller, he regularly spoke of the important role that his faith played in both his personal and political life, and he consistently demonstrated his love of his family and his passion for history.
We extend our deepest condolences to President Miller’s family, and to his colleagues and friends in the General Assembly, in state government, and across Maryland.
Our state lost a legislative giant. May his memory be for a blessing.
January 16, 2021
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Statement from the Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated on Alleged Antisemitism at Johns Hopkins University
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore are aware of a situation at Johns Hopkins University involving antisemitic comments allegedly posted on social media by a teaching assistant. The teaching assistant – who is also a graduate student at the University – is reported to have openly threatened to give lower grades to Jewish and Israeli students in her classes because of their religion and background. She allegedly followed up with additional racist and antisemitic remarks on social media.
On behalf of Baltimore’s Jewish community, we condemn this reported outrageous act of antisemitism and hatred of any kind. Federal law and the University’s own policies are intended to protect all students from discrimination or harassment based on religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, or membership in any other protected class. For Jewish students to face the threat of academic punishment due to their religion is unacceptable.
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated, as well as the Johns Hopkins Hillel, have been working with the University since we first learned of the incident. Although we understand that the University has specific legal processes in place for investigation and discipline, this is an urgent matter and we believe this situation must be resolved as quickly as possible and with transparency. If the allegations are true, we expect there to be clear communications from top leadership to the University’s Jewish community that this kind of behavior is unacceptable and has consequences.
The recently issued report from the Baltimore Community Task Force on Antisemitism offers recommendations on fighting antisemitism at colleges and universities. We call on Johns Hopkins University leadership to embrace these recommendations and commit to working with The Associated, the Baltimore Jewish Council, and Hillel to ensure antisemitism will not be tolerated on this campus, or any other.
January 5, 2021
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Baltimore Jewish Community Mourns the Death of Senator Paul Sarbanes
On behalf of the Baltimore Jewish Community and The Associated, the Baltimore Jewish Council grieves the death of former U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes.
Throughout his career in the Maryland House of Delegates, U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate, Senator Sarbanes fought for vulnerable communities and the needs, priorities and values of our State.
His unassuming, effective leadership and humility during his five terms representing Maryland in the U.S. Senate should serve as an example to everyone. Senator Sarbanes regularly demonstrated the important role that his faith played in both his personal and political life.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Senator’s family, and to his colleagues and friends across Maryland and our nation
Our State and Country lost one of its leaders. May his memory be for a blessing.
December 7, 2020
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Baltimore Jewish Council Stands Against Injustice And Discrimination
The Baltimore Jewish Council joins Jewish communities across the nation in expressing our grief over the death of George Floyd. Our country has experienced too many incidents of police brutality, including the detention and death of Freddie Gray in Baltimore. We stand in solidarity with our friends in the Black community, united as an ally in the fight for equality and the right of all people, regardless of the color of their skin, to live without fear of our government.
We must stand together against hatred and bigotry in any form and uphold the core American values of justice and equality. We commit to taking concrete action to improve relations and enhance understanding between communities here in Baltimore, and between minority groups and law enforcement officials. Because the function of law enforcement is so vital to society, and the because the majority of law enforcement officials are dedicated public servants, it is incumbent upon us to quickly and effectively address violations and violators in a manner that preserves public trust and achieves justice and equality for all.
May 31, 2020
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Statement from the Baltimore Jewish Council on Antisemitic Attacks in New York
The Baltimore Jewish Council condemns the recent series of Antisemitic violent attacks in the New York region.
Last night’s stabbings during celebration of the holiday of Hanukkah in a rabbi’s home in Monsey, N.Y. – apparently motivated by Antisemitism – is the latest example of a horrifying act of violence against Jews. We pray for the full recovery of those who were wounded in Monsey, as well as others injured in the recent attacks in the New York area.
Now is the time for more to be done. We need closer coordination between private security and law enforcement. Public funding should continue to be available to protect religious institutions. Lawmakers must find legislative options to provide greater deterrence against hate crimes. All ideas should be up for discussion.
The Baltimore Jewish Council thanks our partners in federal, state and local law enforcement, as well as our federal, state and local elected officials, for joining us in their collective commitment to ensuring the safety of our communities. Public safety officials have been in constant communication throughout this series of Antisemitic attacks in New York to provide important updates and information.
We also appreciate the concerned outreach of other religious leaders. People of all faiths have a right to be safe regardless of their religious beliefs and regardless of where they are. We are more committed than ever to working to confront Antisemitism, bigotry and hate throughout our society.
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Statement from the Baltimore Jewish Council on New Jersey Attack
The Baltimore Jewish Council mourns the loss of four people killed during an attack on the Jewish community of Jersey City, New Jersey this week. The victims were Leah Minda Ferencz, the store’s owner; Miguel Douglas Rodriguez, a store employee; Moshe Deutsch, who was shopping at the time; and Det. Joseph Seals, a 15-year-veteran of Jersey City’s police department.
For the third time in less than 14 months, a Jewish establishment in the United States has been the target of a deadly Antisemitic attack. We are both devastated and horrified by these attacks. Hate has no place in our society – here, in New Jersey, in San Diego, in Sri Lanka, in New Zealand, in South Carolina, in Pittsburgh, or anywhere in the world.
We pray for the victims’ families and for the full recovery of those who were wounded. We are more committed than ever to working to confront Antisemitism, bigotry and hate throughout our society. We are grateful for the law enforcement officers in New Jersey whose bravery and sacrifice helped save lives, and we are reminded of the efforts that our public safety partners here in Maryland make every day to help protect our communities.
May the memories of those who lost their lives be for a blessing.
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Maryland Jewish Advocacy Organizations and Key Legislators Applaud State Superintendent’s Plan to Boost Holocaust Education Requirements
Earlier this fall, the Baltimore Jewish Council, the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington, and members of the General Assembly wrote to the state superintendent and Maryland State Board of Education urging them to more clearly define state requirements for Holocaust education. Fifty-nine delegates and 20 senators signed letters organized by Delegates Dana Stein, Shelly Hettleman and Michele Guyton of Baltimore County, and Senator Ben Kramer of Montgomery County.
“For years, we have been concerned that the state curriculum guidelines on Holocaust instruction are too vague and create too much potential for variations in the quality and quantity of what is taught among our state’s 24 jurisdictions,” said Howard Libit, Executive Director of the Baltimore Jewish Council. “With this announcement, our state educators are making an emphatic statement about our collective obligation to teach all children about the Holocaust in a consistent and detailed way.”
“Over the past few years we have seen an increase in hate crimes, incidents, and threats being committed at our local public and nonpublic schools,” said Ronald Halber, Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington. “We must address this disturbing trend with more concrete and proactive measures. Teaching about the Holocaust and genocides, and the origins of these horrific events, is critical to fighting hate and bigotry.”
The planned changes announced by Dr. Salmon include requiring Holocaust instruction within the state’s new 4th and 5th grade social studies framework, teaching about the roots of Antisemitism as part of middle school social studies education, and strengthening the required Holocaust instruction in both high school U.S. history and high school modern world history.
“As legislators, we have an obligation to speak up if we believe that critical areas are not being adequately and consistently taught in our public schools,” said Delegate Dana Stein. “We reached the conclusion that Holocaust education qualifies and changes needed to made. We appreciate that the state superintendent has listened to our concerns and is willing to make the necessary changes.”
A survey of 1,350 American adults released last year by the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany found that 66 percent of American millennials cannot say what Auschwitz was. Nearly a third of all Americans in the survey believe that 2 million Jews or fewer were killed in the Holocaust, when the actual number is about 6 million.
“The latest national statistics on the lack of knowledge among American young adults about the Holocaust are very troubling,” said Delegate Shelly Hettleman. “Teaching about the Holocaust is vitally important for its historical significance in and of itself, but its universal lessons about the dangers of prejudice and racism will help ensure that genocide and other atrocities will never happen again.”
“As a former member of the State Board of Education, I know how important it is when the leadership of our public schools takes up an issue and explicitly makes it a more significant part of the state’s curriculum standards,” said Delegate Michele Guyton. “We appreciate the significant step taken here by Dr. Salmon, and we intend to stay engaged with the Maryland State Department of Education to ensure that these recommendations are implemented across all of our schools.”
In her letter to legislators earlier this fall, Dr. Salmon laid out a number of specific changes that she will be recommending, including:
- Adding a unit to address the Holocaust within the 4th and 5th grade social studies framework that is currently being revised by MSDE.
- Adding objective(s) regarding the roots of Antisemitism to an upcoming revision of 6th and 7th grade social studies education, to give students the context to study the Holocaust in high school.
- Including a new Holocaust objective in a high school U.S. history revised framework that is nearly completed – “Students will assess the progression of U.S. involvement in world affairs by tracing the origins of the Holocaust and the American response.”
- Adding an objective to “evaluate the cause, course, and consequences of the Holocaust” to the Modern World History framework for high school. Maryland’s current framework referred to genocide, but did not specially reference the Holocaust.
- Emphasizing that local school systems should devote funding for professional development of teachers around Holocaust instruction.
In the 2019 General Assembly session, Senator Ben Kramer introduced legislation to require greater Holocaust education in middle and high schools in Maryland. While the proposal did not receive a committee vote, the testimony and conversation about the bill prompted the BJC, JCRC and members of the General Assembly to ask the state superintendent and state school board to make the type of changes sought by Senator Kramer’s bill.
Baltimore Jewish Community Mourns the Death of Congressman Elijah Cummings
On behalf of the Baltimore Jewish Community, the Elijah Cummings Youth Program in Israel, and The Associated, the Baltimore Jewish Council grieves the death of Congressman Elijah Cummings. Our community, our city, and our nation lost a friend, a man of faith, and a remarkable leader. He was a champion of the city he loved and all of our community’s needs, priorities, and values, with a constant focus on creating opportunities for young people.
More than 20 years ago, Congressman Cummings joined with Jewish and African-American leaders and the Baltimore Jewish Council to create the Elijah Cummings Youth Program in Israel, a non-profit that prepares high school students to become future leaders. His passion for this program made a difference in the lives of so many, and deepened relationships between our city’s African-American and Jewish communities. The Congressman would regularly remind us that “our children are the living messages we send to a future we will never see.” His work consistently reflected that belief. We are honored to have had the opportunity to work so closely with Congressman Cummings on this initiative, and vow to ensure it continues.
We extend our deepest condolences to all of the family, friends, and colleagues of Congressman Cummings. Our community lost a leader this morning. May his memory be for a blessing.
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BJC Condemns Weekend Terrorism Against Israel and Calls Upon International Community to Speak Out
For three days, Israelis suffered from repeated acts of terrorism – more than 600 rockets and mortars fired indiscriminately at civilian neighborhoods. Hundreds of thousands of families and children were forced to repeatedly hide in bomb shelters. A kindergarten classroom was destroyed by a rocket, empty of children only because classes had been cancelled for the day due to the violence. The dead included people engaged in everyday tasks, among them a Bedouin worker killed amid the destruction of a cement factory in our sister city of Ashkelon and a rabbi killed near Ashdod. The emotional trauma from a weekend of such fear is impossible to quantify.
There is no doubt that this weekend’s terrorist attacks were aimed to pressure Israel as it prepares for three major events – Yom Hazikaron, Yom Ha’atzmaut, and the international Eurovision song contest to be hosted this month in Tel Aviv. We strongly condemn Hamas and Islamic Jihad for the rocket attacks launched against Israel, and for the suffering these terrorists have brought to the residents of Gaza.
While we are hopeful that the recently announced ceasefire holds, no country should have to endure a weekend of more than 600 rocket attacks against its civilian population. Where is the international outrage for this terrorism? We call upon leaders in this country and around the world to condemn this outrageous violence.
Israel has an absolute right to protect herself from attacks. We mourn the dead from this weekend of violence and stand in solidarity with Israel. We also mourn the innocent Gaza residents killed due to their leadership’s actions. We pray that this latest truce holds and that the Palestinian population is someday governed by responsible leaders, enabling a true and lasting peace to be achieved.
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The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated Statement on Synagogue Shooting near San Diego
Our hearts are broken to learn of today’s shooting in the midst of Shabbat services at the Chabad of Poway synagogue near San Diego. This attack on a Jewish community during prayer on the final day of the Passover holiday — apparently motivated by anti-Semitism, and on the six-month anniversary of the shootings in Pittsburgh — is the latest example of a horrifying act of violence on a place of worship.
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated thank our partners in federal, state and local law enforcement, as well as our federal, state and local elected officials, for joining us in their collective commitment to ensuring the safety of our communities. Their response to today’s shooting was immediate and appreciated.
Hate has no place in our society — here, in San Diego, in Sri Lanka, in New Zealand, in South Carolina, in Pittsburgh, or anywhere in the world. We join in mourning and praying for the victims, and we are more committed than ever to working to ensure that people of all faiths are safe in their synagogues, churches, mosques, and other places of worship.
We pledge to continue to combat anti-Semitism as well as other acts and words of hate.
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Baltimore Jewish Community Mourns the Death of House Speaker Michael Busch
On behalf of the Baltimore Jewish Community and The Associated, the Baltimore Jewish Council grieves the loss of House Speaker Michael Busch.
Throughout his career, Speaker Busch devoted himself to public service – as an educator, as a delegate, and, since 2003, as the leader of the House of Delegates. Speaker Busch was passionate in his commitment to his constituents and the entire state of Maryland, and he was a consistent champion of our community’s needs, priorities and values.
Throughout our many meetings with Speaker Busch, he regularly demonstrated to us of the important role that his faith played in both his personal and political life.
We extend our deepest condolences to Speaker Busch’s family, and to his colleagues and friends in the General Assembly and state government.
Our state lost a leader today. May his memory be for a blessing.
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Baltimore Jewish Council Condemns Comments of Minnesota Congresswoman
The Baltimore Jewish Council strongly condemns the recent comments of the first-term Congresswoman from Minnesota.
At a time when anti-Semitism is on the rise, we expect to look to our leaders for moral clarity. Congresswoman Ilhan Omar’s comments about the pro-Israel community’s influence, employing an anti-Semitic trope, are unacceptable. And, in her apology, her denigration of those who exercise their right to lobby their elected officials only compounds our concern.
We are deeply appreciative of the loud and swift condemnation issued by the leadership of the House and so many members of our Maryland delegation.
All groups have a right to engage in lobbying and education as a basic part of our American governmental system. In fact, we, the BJC, are proud to be a citizen lobbying organization. We think that we, and others like us, bring great clarity to matters of legislative interest and that political engagement around issues of interest is an important aspect of American democracy.
As an organization committed to combating anti-Semitism, we vow to continue and to expand our efforts to educate and speak out against hate.
February 13, 2019
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Baltimore Jewish Council Statement on Synagogue Shooting in Pittsburgh
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated are horrified by the shooting that occurred earlier today in the midst of Shabbat services at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. This attack on a Jewish community during prayer -motivated by anti-Semitism – is among our greatest fears. We extend our deepest sympathies to the all of the families affected by today’s violence, including those attending services at the Tree of Life Synagogue and the heroic members of law enforcement who responded so quickly.
In the hours after the shooting, we have heard from many of our elected officials and partner law enforcement agencies, reassuring us that our communities and our places of worship are receiving extra vigilance and attention. We thank them for all that they do every day to help protect our neighborhoods and Jewish institutions.
Hate has no place in our society. We pledge to continue to stand in solidarity against anti-Semitism as well as other acts and words of hate. In response to hatred, in a display of solidarity, and to show that we will not be intimidated, we encourage Jews to pray, study and gather in their synagogues and other Jewish communal settings.
All are invited to join us for a memorial gathering and stand against anti-Semitism at 9:30 a.m. tomorrow morning, Sunday October 28, at Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, 7401 Park Heights Avenue.
October 27, 2018
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Baltimore Jewish Community Mourns the Death of County Executive Kevin Kamenetz
On behalf of the Baltimore Jewish Community and The Associated, the Baltimore Jewish Council grieves the loss of Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz.
For nearly 25 years – first on the Baltimore County Council, and then as the County Executive – Kevin Kamenetz was passionate in his commitment to his constituents and to Baltimore County, Baltimore City and the State of Maryland.
A lifelong Baltimorean, he has been a champion of our community’s needs, priorities and values. Throughout his many appearances at meetings and events in our community, he regularly reminded us of the important role that his faith played in both his personal and political life.
We extend our deepest condolences to Jill, their sons Karson and Dylan, their extended family, and his colleagues and friends in Baltimore County government. Our community lost a leader this morning. May his memory be a blessing.
May 7, 2018
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BJC Statement on Jerusalem Announcement
The Baltimore Jewish Council welcomes the Administration’s recognition of the fact that Jerusalem is the eternal capital of the State of Israel.
We hope that the political leadership in Washington, Jerusalem, Ramallah and Arab capitals throughout the world stay the course in seeking an enduring and comprehensive peace.
December 7, 2017
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Baltimore Jewish Council Urges Congressional Action to Protect Young Immigrants
The Baltimore Jewish Council urges Maryland’s federal representatives to join with their colleagues in Congress in approving a permanent program to protect immigrants who were brought into our country as children.
As a Jewish community, this issue is particularly relevant as migration has been a central element of the Jewish experience, from biblical times to modern American-Jewish life with the emigration of Jews to the United States in search of religious freedom and economic opportunity.
For the past five years, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) initiative has allowed over 9,000 young Marylanders to contribute back to their communities. For many of these young people, the United States is the only home they have ever known. Ending this program without a permanent legislative solution risks damaging the lives of these young people, many of whom have families in the United States and are active in their local communities.
It is time for Congress to take action
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Baltimore Jewish Community Mourns the Death of Cardinal Keeler
On behalf of the Baltimore Jewish community and The Associated, the Baltimore Jewish Council grieves the loss of Cardinal William H. Keeler.
He was a leader in forging relationships with different faiths, not just here in Baltimore, but nationally and internationally.
The deep and meaningful relationship that Cardinal Keeler developed with Baltimore’s Jewish community earned him much respect and admiration. He was a genuine friend of the Jewish community, and his work built a foundation for future leaders of the Archdiocese and future leaders of the Jewish community.
Cardinal Keeler will be missed. May his memory be a blessing.
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BJC Statement On Arrest In Connection to Bomb Threats
The Baltimore Jewish Council wishes to acknowledge the hard work and cooperation that culminated in today’s arrest of the suspected perpetrator of many of the bomb threats against Jewish institutions across the United States over the past three months.
We were pained to learn of the Jewish identity of the person arrested, but are gratified that he was apprehended. These threats were crimes of hate and such crimes must be condemned regardless of the perpetrator and regardless of the target.
We hope this arrest closes a disturbing chapter in our collective history.
The Council is particularly thankful for the efforts and support of our law enforcement, elected leadership and community partners throughout this difficult time. We look forward to communicating more fully once we have received and reviewed more information regarding the perpetrator and his motives.
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Baltimore Jewish Council Condemns “Muslim Ban” Executive Order
The Baltimore Jewish Council condemns the President’s Executive Order to ban entry of refugees into the United States from a number of majority Muslim nations.
We agree that the United States must be concerned foremost with protecting its own citizens and borders, but believe that this can be achieved through strict enforcement of existing security procedures.
Many Jewish Americans know firsthand the difficulties their relatives endured in trying to escape religious and political persecution abroad and resettle their families to a place where they could live in safety. We know the tragic stories of those who were denied access to the United States due to immigration bans of Jewish refugees in the 1940s.
We believe the United States has a moral and historical obligation to create a welcoming environment for individuals and families looking to start a new life after suffering atrocities in their native countries.
Laws that implicitly target specific religious groups should be avoided to the greatest extent possible, and we stand with our friends and neighbors in the Muslim community who are concerned about the effect this ban will have on refugees suffering violence abroad.
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Baltimore Jewish Council Condemns U.S. Abstention on United Nations Security Council Resolution Against Israel
The Baltimore Jewish Council is profoundly disappointed by the decision of the United States to break with established American foreign policy regarding Israel and not block Friday’s one-sided United Nations Security Council resolution.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is far more complicated than is implied by this resolution, and it will ultimately be resolved only through direct negotiations.
UN resolutions like the one approved last week — attacking the only democracy of the Middle East and choosing to focus on isolated issues — harm, rather than help, efforts to restart peaceful negotiations, by making it far less likely that the parties will come to the negotiating table.
The BJC believes that the United States’ strong support for its most steadfast democratic ally in the Middle East is both principled and strategic. Unfortunately, the abstention from last week’s UN resolution was neither.
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