Our Story
The Chicago Jewish Alliance was born out of defiance. In the days after October 7, when grief turned to clarity, a few Jews in Chicago decided they would not sit quietly while others shouted them down.
The spark came when the City Council tried to pass a Gaza ceasefire resolution. Daniel Schwartz—who would become the Alliance’s founder—walked into City Hall with an Israeli flag and asked who would stand beside him. Four answered. Five Jews in a chamber of thousands. They were mocked as baby killers, cursed with slurs, jeered and drowned out. But they did not leave. They stood. That day proved that Jewish Chicago needed more than comfort. It needed a movement.
Drawing on the legacy of partisans and survivors who refused to surrender to history, the Alliance took shape. Daniel filed the papers, but the strength came from the community that rallied with him: Natan Otro, Josh Weiner, Anna Steinberg, Angela Vander Pluym, and countless others who turned conversation into action.
From that moment forward, the Chicago Jewish Alliance has been unapologetic about who we are and what we stand for. We are grassroots. We are fearless. We are political because Jewish survival has always been political. We stand for Western values because without them there is no freedom, no dignity, no life worth living. And we stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel, because her fight is our fight.
This is not simply an organization. It is a declaration. Jewish life in Chicago will not be meek, it will not be hidden, and it will not apologize for existing. It will be strong, proud, and unshakable. That is our story. That is our conviction. And that is our promise.
Meet Our Team
Daniel Schwartz
President
Daniel Schwartz, drawing inspiration from his family's legacy as Holocaust survivors, champions Zionism with a fiery commitment that resonates throughout the Chicagoland Jewish community. As the point person for meetings with elected and government officials, he plays a key role in advocating for community needs. Daniel is on a relentless mission to illuminate the stark injustices faced by the Jewish community—from students to business owners and seniors living in fear of rising antisemitism. He fights against hate, not only providing support but igniting a movement for justice that empowers the Jewish community to stand strong against adversity.
Ethan Slyder
VP of Intercultural Partnerships & Strategic Development
Ethan Slyder plays a pivotal role in forging strong relationships with Jewish and non-Jewish community groups. With a hands-on approach, Ethan is dedicated to fostering collaboration that transcends cultural boundaries, enriching the fabric of the community. His strategic vision is instrumental in advancing essential fundraising efforts, ensuring that initiatives thrive and make a meaningful impact. Passionate and proactive, Ethan is committed to building bridges and creating opportunities that strengthen partnerships, ultimately enhancing unity and understanding among diverse communities.
Our Values
The Chicago Jewish Alliance (CJA) is driven by values of unity, education, community support, courage, and respect, dedicated to uniting the Jewish community and allies, advocating against antisemitism, and ensuring the dignity and safety of all members.
Unity and Solidarity
The CJA emphasizes the importance of uniting members of the Jewish community and their allies. To stand together against antisemitism and discrimination, ensuring that no individual faces such hatred alone.
Zionism
The CJA supports the right of the Jewish people to self-determination and the existence of Israel as a Jewish homeland. We advocate for the safety and security of Israel, promoting understanding and support for Zionism.
Community Support
CJA provides robust support for community members, offering a safe space and resources for those facing persecution or discrimination. Their efforts are geared towards fostering a strong, supportive network within the Jewish community.
Courage and Resilience
The foundation of CJA is built on the courage and resilience of its founders, who stood up against overwhelming hostility. This value drives their mission to confront and resist any form of injustice, ensuring that their community remains steadfast in the face of adversity.
Education and advocacy
The organization is deeply committed to educating the public about Jewish culture, history, and the current issues facing the Jewish community. Through advocacy, they aim to influence policies and public opinion to support Jewish interests and combat antisemitism.
Respect and Dignity
CJA is dedicated to ensuring that the voices of the Jewish community are heard and respected. They strive to protect the dignity of every individual, advocating for their rights and working tirelessly to prevent harassment, persecution, and violence.
