U.S. Congressmembers, Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller, state senators and delegates and county council members expressed their strong support for Israel and against hate during the Jewish Community Relations Council’s (JCRC) 2023 Lox & Legislators breakfast Thursday.
“We can’t be bystanders. We need to engage each and every day,” Miller said. Gov. [Wes] Moore and I know these are dark and painful times for the Jewish people,” she said, stressing, “Our number one priority is to make sure Marylanders are protected.”
300 legislators, nonprofit employes and community members gathered at Ohr Kodesh Congregation in Chevy Chase to listen to JCRC’s 2024 legislative priorities and to find strength among each other in fighting antisemitism and hate against any group.
Rabbi Corey Helfand of Ohr Kodesh thanked everyone “for standing with us,” and urged them to continue to do so,” adding, “We still need you right now.”
Ron Halber, executive director of the JCRC, proclaimed, “This is not a normal time. We are still reeling,” following the Oct. 7 massacre in Israel by Hamas.
U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin vowed to continue supporting efforts that would eliminate Hamas and make a safer world for both Israelis and Palestinians. Maryland Sen. Ben Kramer (D-19) called for regular Holocaust education in Maryland schools.
During 2024, the JCRC plans to fight for funding for Israel, secure dollars for nonprofit security grants and continue support for Holocaust survivors.
On the state level, JCRC will work to combat antisemitism, ensure reproductive freedom, climate change, voter access, disability advocacy, domestic abuse and behavioral healthcare needs.
In Montgomery County, the JCRC’s platform calls for increasing funding for security grants, poverty programs, childcare and social agencies.
This morning, I was proud to join so many of our local, county, state, and federal officials at this year's important @JCRCgw 2023 Maryland Lox & Legislators Breakfast, including @SenatorCardin, @RepGlennIvey, & @RepDavidTrone. pic.twitter.com/MrNCGYXTxg
— Adam Van Grack (@AdamVanGrack) December 21, 2023
A packed house for the annual @JCRCgw Lox & Legislators. pic.twitter.com/cWZsoHVvZi
— Marc Korman (@mkorman) December 21, 2023
