In an era of rising antisemitism in the U.S. and around the world, the United Jewish Federation of Utah along with the Jewish Federations of North America appreciate the clarity and urgency demonstrated by the White House in releasing its National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. We welcome yesterday’s announcement which embraces the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, which is a continuation of longstanding US policy and a critical tool in the fight against anti-Jewish hate and bias. We are also particularly encouraged by the commitment to increased non-profit security grant funding, their call for additional funding to help communities beyond the current investment, and their interagency effort to improve information-sharing and hate crimes reporting.

Because this unprecedented spike in antisemitism is causing significant pain and alarm, we look forward to the implementation and impact of this important national strategy. The United Jewish Federation of Utah is committed to keeping our community safe through the hiring of our first Community Security Director, as well as continuing our efforts to fight antisemitism locally, and leading the effort of our broad coalition of community partners to make Utah no place for hate.

Alex Shapiro

Executive Director