CJA has been asked to attend a rally in Washington D.C. at the same time as our program was scheduled, so our program has been cancelled.
Featured speaker: Natan Ostro, co-founder and board member
The CJA mobilizes the Jewish community and our allies at the grassroots level throughout Chicago and the surrounding metropolitan area. Its mission is to combat antisemitism and support Israel through advocacy, education, community engagement, and empowerment.
Founded in April 2024 in response to pro-Hamas encampments across Chicago universities, CJA aims to ensure the Jewish community shows up for critical issues. They organized counter-demonstrations at DePaul University that garnered nearly three times the participation of their initial Zionist WhatsApp group, leading to the removal of the encampment. This momentum has fueled ongoing efforts.
Throughout these experiences, CJA has faced hostility, but that has only strengthened their resolve to ensure that no Jew stands alone against harassment or persecution for being Jewish or supporting Israel.
Topics for Discussion:
Community Building: The CJA is a non-partisan organization focused on fostering coalitions across diverse Jewish identities—religious, secular, and those simply supportive of Israel. They believe in the strength of unity.
Recent Initiatives: Over the past six months, they’ve engaged the community through various programs, including heritage celebrations and keynote speakers, as well as advocating at city council meetings.
Call to Action: The audience will be encouraged to speak up when they see or hear something concerning. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, sharing experiences, or contacting the CJA for support, it’s crucial for everyone to feel empowered and engage with their community.
Recent Partnerships and Events: Also included will be CJA’s collaboration with Israeli American Council (IAC), JCC, USY, United Hatzalah, and various Israeli speakers with direct and indirect ties to October 7th.