Over the past few weeks, I've heard from many of you concerned about the troubling rise of antisemitism across our nation. As the most senior Jewish Member of Congress, I take my responsibility to protect the Jewish community—and those of all faiths—from hateful rhetoric seriously. I'm concerned, however, that the approach conservatives are taking to counter these attacks fails to meet the moment we face. 

We need tangible solutions to this crisis, not political grandstanding and showmanship. That's why last week, I led the opposition to a bill that, despite its deceptive title, would chill constitutionally protected speech while doing nothing to fund the programs that actually protect college campuses and houses of worship.

As a longtime champion of civil liberties, I'm steadfast in my support of Americans' right to free expression, so long as it doesn't violate the civil rights of others or become violent or threatening speech. 

Recently, I sat down with POLITICO to discuss what Congress should be doing to combat antisemitism. 

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides funding for churches, synagogues, and mosques to enhance building security, hire guards, and more.  The deadline to apply is May 21, and I encourage all eligible to do so. 

We also must increase funding for the Office of Civil Rights (OCR), which is responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws on college campuses. This year, President Biden has called for a 27% increase in OCR funding to address the dramatic increase in antisemitic incidents. Unfortunately, conservatives have called for a 25% cut, which would undermine the ability to prosecute these cases. 

Finally, I will also continue to work towards implementing President Biden's U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, an all-of-government approach to address this crisis. I urge Speaker Johnson to bring the bipartisan Countering Antisemitism Act to a vote, which would implement the policies necessary to keep Jewish communities safe. 

I hope you find this update on my work for you helpful. To receive more updates like these, click here to sign up. If I can be of assistance with a federal issue or any other matter of concern, please email me here or call one of my offices listed below.  

Sincerely,  

JERROLD NADLER

Member of Congress