In the current political environment, marked by extreme polarization and inflammatory rhetoric, JCPA is sharing our 2016 Statement on Civility Around Elections, as well as excerpts from our 2018 Resolution on White Supremacy. JCPA calls on all candidates to clearly and publicly reject and condemn white supremacy, and to ensure the safety and security of everyone in the United States, in both speech and in deed.

JCPA Civility Statement Around Elections (2016)

We, as Americans, enjoy a rich tradition of political discourse, ideological diversity, and debate. This diversity can be a durable source of strength. A vigorous exchange of ideas featuring different perspectives allows us to experiment with varied approaches and arrive at effective public policy solutions that help improve the lives of us all. Held in a spirit of respect, this exchange can allow us to find common ground when warranted and foster a more united America.

However, at times, particularly during elections, political discourse can become needlessly acrimonious and undermine the spirit of engagement and citizenship among Americans. Such discord can pull us apart and make it more, not less, difficult to find common ground or even maintain neighborly relations. Moreover, shrill political discussion can cross the line, and spread intolerance and bigotry. Especially during elections, when divisions are most pronounced, we must be vigilant in preventing political discourse from drawing on deep-seated resentment and intolerance.

We call upon all candidates running for elected office, as well as all Americans, to engage during this election season in a thoughtful, respectful, and civil discussion over the future direction of this country. We strive to make our politics represent the best of our American values — free thought, mutual respect, and civic engagement.

JCPA Resolution on White Supremacy (2018)

Along with communities of color, many Jewish communities are main targets of white nationalist rhetoric and activity…The Jewish Council for Public Affairs:

Share

Next Up:

JCPA Mourns the Loss of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Take Action Donate

July 28, 2025

Jewish Council for Public Affairs Welcomes FY2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)

July 28, 2025

Newsweek Op-Ed: To Fight Antisemitism and Preserve Democracy, Educators and the Jewish Community Must Partner Closely

July 23, 2025

News Coverage: JCPA Advances a Collaborative Approach to Countering Antisemitism in Schools

July 15, 2025

Protected: JCRC Pros Listserv

July 14, 2025

JCPA Urges NEA to Reject Divisive Resolution, Reaffirms Commitment to Working Together to Confront Antisemitism and Hate

July 14, 2025

Jewish Council for Public Affairs Alarmed by SCOTUS Allowing Trump Admin to Gut DOE

July 14, 2025

NEWSLETTER: “The complicated middle” – July 14, 2025

July 10, 2025

Holding Space in the Middle, Fighting for Democracy and Against Antisemitism

July 4, 2025

JCPA CEO Amy Spitalnick Condemns President Trump’s Use of Antisemitic Slur

July 3, 2025

Reconciliation Bill Promotes Cruel, Morally Bankrupt Vision for America