Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, James Lankford, Jacky Rosen, along with U.S. Representatives Kathy Manning, Chris Smith, and 59 Members of Congress, have called on Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Christopher Wray to prioritize the safety and security of Jewish Americans and institutions in light of the recent increase in antisemitic threats and incidents.

In a letter addressed to Secretary Mayorkas and Director Wray, the members expressed their concern about the rise of antisemitism in the United States following the terrorist attacks in Israel on October 7. They emphasized the need to take speech inciting violence, as well as threats and acts of terrorism and violence, seriously while protecting free speech.

The members urged the DHS and FBI to continue their efforts in ensuring the physical safety and security of Jewish Americans, religious institutions, and organizations, including synagogues, schools, and Jewish community centers. They specifically called for additional resources to be allocated to the DHS' Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) and increased awareness of its importance.

The letter also highlighted the importance of information sharing with targeted communities and state and local law enforcement partners. The members stressed the need for coordination between federal agencies, including the National Security Council and the Department of Education, as well as local governments, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to prevent and respond to threats of violence.

The members of Congress emphasized the significance of implementing Pillar 2 of the US National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, which focuses on countering incitement to violence. They called for federal interagency coordination and collaboration to address the current threat landscape and ensure the safety of Jewish communities.

To support their efforts, the members requested an unclassified member briefing by October 31, 2023, to be informed about the current threat assessment, interagency coordination efforts, and preparedness and resilience measures in place to prevent and respond to antisemitic violence.

The call to prioritize the prevention of antisemitic violence comes at a crucial time when the United States is witnessing an increase in threats and incidents targeting Jewish Americans and Jewish organizations. By urging the DHS and FBI to allocate resources and increase awareness of the NSGP, the members of Congress are taking a proactive stance in protecting the safety and security of Jewish communities across the nation.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-colleagues-urge-dhs-fbi-to-prioritize-prevention-of-antisemitic-violence