For Immediate Release:
March 7, 2024

NEW YORK – In response to President Biden’s State of the Union this evening, Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), issued the following statement:

“Tonight the President made clear that democracy is under assault here at home and abroad — and that we have no choice but to confront this threat head on.

“Make no mistake: increasingly normalized hate, extremism, and conspiracy theories serve as the connective tissue behind these threats, fueling and animating broader attacks on our communities, our rights, and our democracy. 

“We know that our safety as Jews is inextricably linked with that of others. This requires all of us to mobilize — not only to counter antisemitism through full implementation of the historic national strategy and other key paths, but to protect all communities and rights under threat. 

“The President outlined a critical agenda tonight to protect these rights and freedoms, including many of our key priorities: voting rights and the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, reproductive freedom and restoration of Roe, LGBTQ safety and the Equality Act, rejecting book bans, enforcement of the Violence Against Women Act, efforts to counter gun violence, and so much more.

“We are also grateful for President Biden’s focus on securing the release of the remaining hostages, addressing the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and moving toward a future in which all Israelis and Palestinians are truly safe and free.”

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About JCPA

The mission of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) is to strengthen and leverage the Jewish community relations network across the nation to champion a just, democratic, and pluralistic society and advance the right of full inclusion of all members of our society, including Jews, free of discrimination, hate, and prejudice.

Inspired by Jewish values of human dignity and equal justice under the law and an abiding commitment to vibrant and secure Jewish communities here, in Israel, and throughout the world, JCPA convenes and catalyzes its network to work with public officials, build deep relations, and engage in advocacy coalitions based on shared goals.