Our Story
On January 31st, 2024, a group of five courageous Jewish individuals gathered at City Hall in Chicago, standing shoulder to shoulder in the face of adversity. The Chicago Jewish Alliance was born from the determination of Danny Schwartz, who found himself confronting hatred during a pivotal moment at City Hall. Alongside Natan, Ina, Melanie, and Derek, Danny faced hostility, being unjustly labeled and persecuted for their support of Israel and their opposition to calls for a ceasefire during a City Council meeting.
In that moment of confrontation, outnumbered 50 to 1, Danny, Natan, Ina, Derek, and Melanie resolved that such injustices would not be tolerated again. Their shared commitment to standing firm against hate and discrimination led to the formation of the Chicago Jewish Alliance. With unity and determination, they vowed to ensure that the voices of the Jewish community would always be heard and respected, without the fear of persecution, harassment, or violence.
Meet Our Team
Daniel Schwartz
Co-Founder
Daniel Schwartz, co-founder of the Chicago Jewish Alliance, draws strength from his family's legacy as Holocaust survivors, infusing his work with a deep commitment to Zionism. His dedication to the Jewish community is unwavering, fueled by the memory of his grandparents' struggles and sacrifices.
Josh Weiner
Co-Founder
Josh Weiner, a distinguished Jewish leader, serves as a driving force behind the marketing and organizational endeavors of the Chicago Jewish Alliance. His pivotal role in shaping the Alliance's mission and outreach strategies underscores his commitment to advancing the community's interests.
Anna Steinberg
Co-Founder
Anna Steinberg, a devoted mother and passionate community activist, radiates warmth and compassion as she tirelessly advocates for her community. Her unwavering dedication to spreading light and kindness illuminates the religious community in the Northshore and resonates throughout Chicago.
Natan Ostro
Co-Founder
Natan Ostro, a dedicated leader in the Chicago Jewish community, is deeply committed to fostering unity and positive change. Through his tireless efforts, he strives to ensure that every member of his community feels valued and included, regardless of their race, background, or beliefs.
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. They 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.
