Jewish Federation of Cincinnati

As we journey through the summer months, the antisemitism our teens and young adults face weighs heavily on parents’ minds. Yet, I am inspired by the strength and pride our youth display in embracing their Jewish identity with joy and resilience.

The recent assassination attempt on former President Trump has highlighted the importance of unity and resilience. We mourn the loss of Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old former firefighter who heroically protected his family, and pray for the health of David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, who were critically wounded. According to the ADL, the incident has sparked antisemitic conspiracy theories and calls for violence. These events underscore our mission and the importance of supporting our youth during these challenging times.

Responding to the Call: Enhanced Engagement and Support

Early in the summer, our partner Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) commissioned a study to explore Jewish life, attitudes, and security concerns in America. The findings were eye-opening: over 8 out of 10 Jewish young adults support Israel, while only 2 out of 10 of their non-Jewish peers do. This stark disparity fuels extreme antisemitic acts on campuses. Recognizing this issue, we mobilized to provide our college students with the resources and tools to feel empowered and navigate campus life.

Upcoming Events: 

Please encourage the Jewish college students in your life to attend one or both of these “Jewish on Campus” events:

Summer Mini Golf Social

• Date: Thursday, August 8, 7-9pm
• Details: Free for Jewish college students, this event includes golf and a drink ticket, offering a chance to build community, forge friendships, and find support.
  
  

Navigating Today’s College Life

• Date: Sunday, August 11, 10am-2:30pm (half-day workshop)
• Details: Free for Jewish college students, including lunch and parking. Informed by iCenter pedagogy, this workshop will help students understand the current campus climate, connect with the Cincinnati Jewish community, and learn strategies and resources to support their well-being and Jewish journey on campus. Students will gain insights into navigating antisemitism and building a supportive community network. 
• Participating Agencies: Federation, Adath Israel Congregation, Camp Livingston, Cincinnati Hillel, Jewish Family Service, JVS Careers (Workum program), Miami Hillel, Mayerson JCC, The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center, Rockdale Temple, Rockwern Academy, Wise Temple, and our public affairs arm JCRC.
  
  

Advocacy & Local Initiatives

Our team has been actively advocating for our teens and young adults in DC, Ohio, and Cincinnati. Recently, the CAMPUS Act passed the Ohio House and Senate, mandating colleges to adopt policies to combat anti-Jewish hate. Our JCRC worked actively in shaping this bill, and Director Rabbi Ari Jun, and our Workum intern Eliana Goldner, testified in support. You can watch their testimony here (from 01:09:45 – 01:26:30).

We, along with Cincinnati Hillel, successfully lobbied the University of Cincinnati to join Hillel International’s Campus Climate Initiative for the 2024-2025 school year. Additionally, our efforts contributed to the Ohio Statehouse’s passage of the Religious Expression Days Act, providing all K-12 students with a minimum of three days per year of religious accommodations, and the Cincinnati Public School Board’s adoption of policies protecting CPS students from identity-based hate. Our JCRC is also coordinating outreach to local schools to implement antisemitism training.

Upcoming Virtual Events Offered by Our Partners, JFNA and JCPA:

• Thur., July 25, 1pm: Holocaust, Genocide and Human Rights Initiative at Penn State
• Tues., July 30, 2pm: Addressing Antisemitism on Campus This Fall
• Thur., August 1, 2pm: Freedom of Speech: Anti-Israel Protests
  
  

A Community United

Our community offers rich opportunities for our youth—they just need encouragement to dive in! All of this is fueled by your generous support of our annual campaign, so thank you.

Shabbat Shalom,

Danielle V. Minson

CEO
Jewish Federation of Cincinnati

P.S. Do you know a 9th to 12th grader who wants to earn $50 for 30 minutes of their time? If so, please forward them this link. It’s a quick, 5-second screener to see if they qualify.