To the extent that the Jewish community has thrived in the U.S., it has been because we live in a democratic, pluralistic society. However, our democratic norms and ideals are now under threat, and it’s therefore imperative that the organized Jewish community speak out. That starts with us, the Federation and our Jewish Community Relations Council. The Trump administration has pursued certain policies and actions that should deeply concern all of us in the Jewish community—regardless of political party affiliation—even as we show our genuine appreciation for the administration’s facilitation of a ceasefire in Gaza and return of the hostages. We can’t afford to simply sit on the sidelines as our democracy is being slowly eroded. This democracy statement, approved without opposition at the JCRC's most recent meeting,  will serve as a guideline for advocacy both within the Jewish community and in coordination with our partners in other faith and ethnic communities.

Preamble

Our security as Jews in America has always been tied to the rule of law, to the safety of minority communities, to the strength of civil society, and to the protection of civil rights and liberties for all. Historically, it is through strong democratic norms and institutions, some of which are now under assault, that the American Jewish community has been allowed to thrive.

Combating Antisemitism on University Campuses

The JCRC reaffirms our core commitment to protecting free speech and academic freedom and, at the same time, to combating antisemitism. A campus climate that values academic freedom can promote critical thinking and civil discourse, which are often the best antidote to hatred and discrimination.

Nonetheless, the scourge of antisemitism on college campuses requires urgent and consistent action by university leaders, including the enforcement of professional and student codes of conduct and time, place and manner restrictions for protests. In addition, we believe that Title VI provides an important remedy for situations where a university has failed repeatedly to address persistent and pervasive antisemitic conduct, such as that involving intimidation and violence or threats of violence against Jewish and Zionist students, faculty and staff.

Sweeping draconian funding cuts, on the other hand, only serve to weaponize antisemitism and weaken the free academic inquiry that strengthens democracy and society, rather than productively countering antisemitism on campus. Strong educational institutions are essential to combat ignorance and prejudice generally, whereas authoritarian control of universities is too often a harbinger of the breakdown of democratic institutions. 

Immigration/Deportations

The JCRC believes that due process is an essential component of our democracy. Undocumented immigrants who are convicted of criminal activity by a court of law should be deported in accordance with existing law. Similarly, individuals here on a student visa who have allegedly advocated for violence against Jews by glorifying terrorist groups should be provided due process, prosecuted under the law, and be subject to deportation if appropriate. However, summarily stripping international students of visas under the guise of fighting antisemitism could actually make Jews less safe in the long run because it undermines the rule of law.

The JCRC is deeply opposed to the heavy-handed (and potentially unconstitutional) tactics used by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE) that are spreading fear and panic among the immigrant community. These tactics, which have been challenged in court, include the impersonation of police officers and other deceptive tactics to gain warrantless entry into schools, businesses, houses of worship, and even people’s homes.

The U.S. was founded and built by individuals who came here in search of religious and political freedom and economic opportunity. Moreover, the Jewish community has historically appreciated the U.S. as a place of refuge from oppression. Recognizing the Torah’s ethical imperative to “welcome the stranger,” U.S. immigration policy should therefore institute uniform, compassionate, and humane protocols and criteria to process refugee and asylum claims so that those fleeing persecution and extreme economic hardship are protected.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)

The JCRC believes the well-being of the Jewish community depends on an inclusive, pluralistic society. We reaffirm our support for DEI programs generally while also recognizing the significant need for reform as too often DEI professionals ignore or dismiss antisemitism as a serious issue. DEI aims to ensure fair treatment, resource allocation, and opportunities for individuals from historically underrepresented groups, addressing systemic barriers and removing disadvantages to create a level playing field for all.

Our JCRC opposes policies to terminate DEI offices, positions, and programs in the federal government and in organizations receiving federal funding. Rather, we seek to work closely with DEI departments in universities, schools, and other organizations to incorporate professional development training on antisemitism.

Historical Erasure

The JCRC opposes the president’s March 2025 executive order to remove from national museums and federal properties certain historical exhibits, documents, portraits, and monuments that shine a light on our country’s darkest periods. Not only would wide-scale implementation of this order result in the erasure of America’s shameful history of racism and slavery, but it could also potentially lead to a whitewashing of U.S. inaction during the Holocaust. Experience shows that a culture of manufactured ignorance rooted in the rejection of history, facts, and critical thought will foster censorship and muzzle dissent and debate, both of which are essential for a healthy democracy. 

Bob Horenstein is the Chief Community Relations and Public Affairs Officer for the Jewish Federation of Greater Portland.