Advocacy
A Jewish Voice in the Halls of Government,
Schools, and Society
Advocacy
“A Jew is asked to take a leap of action rather than a leap of faith.”
– Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel
Through the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), the Federation combats antisemitism, builds community partnerships, and advocates with legislators, educators and community leaders to protect Jewish life. By working with policymakers and educating leaders, we ensure Jewish voices are heard, and we are standing up for our community in critical times of need.
Who We Are
The Federation’s JCRC convenes and mobilizes our community, educates and advocates on issues of vital concern based on Jewish values, consensus, and respect for our diversity, and builds bridges within and beyond the Jewish community focused on core issues. We engage with local, state, and national leaders to advance Jewish concerns. We also serve as a trusted resource for nuanced insights on sensitive community and government relations matters.
The JCRC includes over 30 Jewish organizations and 20 individual leaders, ensuring a broad and representative voice for the Puget Sound Jewish community.
Our Core Work Includes
Combatting Hate
We actively work against antisemitism, bigotry, and racism in our community. We believe in protecting the life and dignity of every person, regardless of their background.
Supporting Israel
We advocate for a peaceful, secure, Jewish, and democratic State of Israel. We affirm the right of the Jewish people to self-determination in their ancestral homeland.
Building Bridges
We foster positive relationships with other communities, racial groups, and public officials, and build coalitions based on shared concerns to achieve common goals.
Strengthening Our Community
We promote cohesion and civil discourse within our Jewish communities.
Resources and Support for Countering Antisemitism
Access vital resources for reporting incidents, support services, and ways to take action against hate.
JCRC News
We were honored to welcome Amy Spitalnik, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, who spoke powerfully about the national landscape of antisemitism, the interconnection between Jewish safety and democracy, and why the work of JCRCs is so critical at this moment.
I encourage each of you to join me, and our JCRC members in seeking out what brings you courage, connection, and expansiveness so that together, we can work toward a brighter and safer 5786.
We’re supporting our community by playing a key role in the passage of a new statewide hate crimes and bias incident hotline, now live in King, Clark, and Spokane counties.
We’re proud to be part of the collective effort that helped defeat a harmful National Education Association measure and will continue working to ensure antisemitism has no place in our schools and institutions.
Thanks To Your Support
Secured for Federal nonprofit security grants in the last decade.
Secured for the Washington State Jewish Historical Society to preserve and share community oral histories in the 2024 legislative session.
Non-Jewish leaders from government, education, DEI, business, and nonprofits participated in JCRC antisemitism trainings last year.
Community members mobilized to fight antisemitism through 5 Legislative Alerts last year.
Advocates from districts across Washington State participated in Jewish Community Lobby Day in 2025.
Your Voice Matters
Sign up for action alerts and help amplify our collective voice when it matters most.
Stay Connected
Receive email updates on all things related to the JCRC. Email jcrc@jewishinseattle.org with any further questions on how to get involved.
