The letter follows a troubling increase of antisemitic threats and demonstrations as a result of the terrorist attacks against Israel
WASHINGTON, DC (October 20, 2023) — Today, Congresswoman Valerie Foushee (NC-04) joined the North Carolina Democratic delegation, including Representatives Deborah Ross (NC-02), Kathy Manning (NC-06), Alma Adams (NC-12), Don Davis (NC-01), Jeff Jackson (NC-14), and Wiley Nickel (NC-13), in calling for increased federal funding for synagogue security through the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Appropriations legislation. The letter follows the recent and alarming surge in antisemitic threats in the United States after Hamas’ brutal terrorist attacks against Israel.
In 2022 alone, antisemitic incidents increased by 30% in North Carolina. Funding from NSGP provides support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attacks.
“This past week, Hamas terrorists unleashed an unprovoked and appalling attack on Israel, killing more than 1,400 people—including both civilians and soldiers...In the days since the start of the attack, there has been an alarming rise in antisemitic threats and demonstrations worldwide, including on American soil,” the Members wrote.
The Members continued, “Antisemitism is real, it is happening right at our doorstep, and we must support our Jewish community now more than ever. We must continue responding to this troubling rise in antisemitism with robust NSGP funding to bolster the security of Jewish houses of worship. These religious communities deserve our support in making the necessary investments to keep their leaders, staff, and congregations safe.”
Full text of the letter is available here.