Local Government Proclaims Support for Israel
October 26, 2023
The horrific attacks on October 7, shook Jewish communities around the world. In an immediate response, Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) launched an action alert encouraging elected officials at the federal, state, and local levels to speak out and make a clear and unequivocal statement in support of our ally, Israel and its right to defend itself.
On October 12, the 7th largest city in the United States, San Antonio, made a proclamation in support of Israel and condemning Hamas terrorist acts of war. Signed by Mayor Ron Nirenberg, this proclamation resolved that, “The City of San Antonio stands in solidarity with Israel. As we mourn the loss of Israeli and American lives and the loss of Palestinian citizens. We pray for the families of those who were killed during this horrific violence; We pray for the swift, safe return of all hostages; and we hope for a peaceful, just resolution.”
Following this resolution, on October 24, the 16th largest county, Bexar County, joined in recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself against terror. Commissioner Grant Moody paved the way for this proclamation with Judge Peter Sakai affirming the county’s commitment to peace, justice, and democracy. This proclamation resolved that, “The Bexar County Commissioners Court hereby recognizes and proclaims its support to ‘Stand with Israel’ and recognizes Israel’s inherent right to self-defense and calls for the immediate return of all hostages by Hamas as well as an end to terrorist operations in the Gaza Strip.”
Thank you to the city and county for their continued support of Israel and the Jewish community.
We also applaud those in Congress who have and continue to speak out in support of Israel. You can view a full list of all those who have spoken out, HERE.
On a national level, President Biden sent a Supplemental Funding package to Congress on October 20 that contains key priorities for the Jewish community, including $14.3 billion in emergency aid to Israel, hundreds of millions of dollars to secure Jewish community institutions, and additional military, economic, and humanitarian support for the Ukrainian people in their fight for democracy. Please share this link to sign JFNA’s action alert to support the Supplemental Funding package: https://jfeds.org/supplementalactionalert
The Jewish Federation of San Antonio continues to collect donations to the Israel Crisis Fund, to support victims of terror and on-the-ground support. CLICK HERE to give today.