Since its founding 80 years ago, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) has served as the national convener of Jewish coalitions working to build a just and inclusive democracy—bringing together national and local partners to address the issues that most deeply affect our community and advance our most essential values. Throughout its history, JCPA has been at the forefront of the fight for civil rights, justice, and equality in the United States.

Today, JCPA is mobilizing the robust community relations network and its partners in pursuit of a more just and democratic society for all – based on an abiding belief that Jewish safety is inextricably linked with the safety of other communities and a strong, pluralistic democracy.

This is even more crucial at a moment when rising attempts to normalize antisemitism and other forms of hate and extremism seek to drive wedges between the Jewish community and other targeted groups. Growing extremism, disinformation, and attacks on inclusive democracy are fueling rollbacks of rights and a cycle of hate and violence that profoundly endangers Jews and so many others.

JCPA’s work is rooted in the understanding that only by overcoming lines of difference and fostering solidarity across communities can we advance an inclusive future in which Jews – and all people – are safe and free.

80 Years of JCPA

JCPA has been the organized Jewish community’s primary convener and consensus-builder, community relations powerhouse, and policy advocate since 1944. Take a look at Our Story: JCPA’s Historical Narrative and Timeline and video to learn more about how JCPA’s work has impacted our community and our society.

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