What We Do

CJA is a grassroots, Zionist organization dedicated to strengthening the Chicagoland Jewish community where legacy groups have faltered. We’ve built our credibility through decisive action and tangible results. Committed to a nonpartisan mission, CJA advocates for Jewish rights and Israel while providing essential support to Jews and allies in need. We ensure that Jewish voices are heard, respected, and protected from persecution. Together, we will transform this moment of adversity into resilience and solidarity within our community.

Advocacy Work

CJA stands at the forefront of advocacy for the Chicagoland Jewish community, actively engaging in local and national meetings and hearings on issues of paramount importance. CJA delivers education and advocacy on behalf of the Jewish community to residents, lawmakers, stakeholders, and institutions, empowering them to effectively pursue and enact pro-Jewish legislation. Through our strategic initiatives, we foster a collaborative environment that strengthens advocacy efforts and ensures that the needs and rights of the Jewish community are recognized and prioritized.

Respected Authority of the Chicagoland Jewish Community

CJA leadership consistently makes impactful media appearances, articulating the concerns and perspectives of the Jewish community on pressing issues. By effectively bringing these matters to public attention, CJA plays a critical role in ensuring that the Jewish community is represented in the cultural conversation. We are steadfast in our commitment to preventing any individual or institution from silencing our voices, serving as an essential advocate for Jewish rights and representation in the zeitgeist. Through our proactive engagement, we empower the community and reinforce its presence in societal discourse, affirming that our narrative cannot be overlooked.

Support for K-12 Students and Families

CJA is proactive in addressing anti-Jewish incidents, curricula challenges, and other obstacles faced by Jewish families in the K-12 educational space throughout the Chicagoland area. We are committed to providing robust support to parents and students, collaborating closely with school administrations to create environments where Jewish children feel safe, valued, and supported. Through our dedicated efforts, we advocate for equitable representation and protection within educational institutions, ensuring that every Jewish student can flourish academically and socially.

CJA’s vigilance and advocacy are crucial in fostering inclusive educational spaces that empower Jewish families to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.

Confronting Antisemitism on College Campuses and Universities

From combating antisemitic encampments and protests to addressing problematic curricula and banned radical campus organizations, CJA is committed to advocating for and protecting the rights and safety of Jewish students. We hold administrations accountable and take necessary action to ensure the safety of Jewish students, including pressuring schools to impose mask bans so that students remain identifiable on campus. CJA's dedication to defending Jewish students is essential for fostering an environment that respects their rights and prioritizes their safety.

Legal Support and Assistance

CJA is unwavering in its commitment to legal support for Jews in need, particularly in response to the alarming rise in antisemitic attacks. Leveraging our extensive network of skilled attorneys, we coordinate pro bono legal assistance tailored to various situations and challenges that individuals may face. From civil rights lawyers to experts in discrimination cases, our diverse team ensures that affected individuals receive the comprehensive legal guidance and support necessary to navigate their circumstances effectively. By fostering strong relationships with dedicated legal professionals, CJA empowers the Jewish community to stand resilient against antisemitism, ensuring that justice is served.

Advocates for Jewish-Owned Businesses

Many businesses in the Chicagoland area have encountered vandalism, online hate, and blacklisting solely due to their Jewish ownership. CJA proactively confronts these challenges head-on by engaging with local law enforcement and local community groups, ensuring that the voices of Jewish business owners are heard and protected. We also invest in targeted advertising for Jewish businesses that have been unfairly targeted, helping to counteract the damaging effects of doxxing and fake Google reviews that undermine their reputations. CJA stands resolute in defending the rights and dignity of Jewish entrepreneurs, working tirelessly to restore their confidence and promote a thriving business environment.

Fostering Opportunities for Jewish and Ally Artists and Creatives

CJA is responding to the urgent need to amplify the voices of Jewish creatives in a time marked by rampant antisemitism and Jew hatred. Jewish artists increasingly face marginalization and exclusion from artistic spaces in Chicago and surrounding suburbs due to open antisemitism, with Jewish films canceled amid credible threats of violence. Numerous Jewish comedians and visual artists have also endured blacklisting and cancellations, barred from venues, exhibitions, and galleries simply for their identity or perspective.

Recognizing the critical importance of Jewish artistic expression to our cultural landscape, CJA is dedicated to providing a platform for these artists, championing their work, and fostering an inclusive environment where Jewish voices can thrive and resonate. By advocating for their inclusion and supporting their endeavors, we aim to ensure that the rich tapestry of Jewish creativity remains a vibrant and essential part of our shared cultural dialogue, especially during these challenging times.

Providing Support for Sister Jewish Organizations and Institutions

CJA collaborates with and supports other Jewish organizations and institutions. CJA has even inspired the formation of similar “Jewish Alliance” chapters around the country! From raising funds and advertising events to funding security, CJA is committed to helping fellow Jewish-focused organizations.

Community Building and Education

CJA regularly hosts social, educational, advocacy, artistic, cultural, and other events to build and strengthen the Jewish community in Chicago. Our events have become a source of solidarity and healing as well as a safe space for Jews to discuss the challenges facing our community.

Project Ahava and Other Fundraising

CJA recently launched Project Ahava, a new initiative to turn grassroots generosity into real-world impact. Every quarter, our members choose a cause that needs urgent support, and we rally our community to meet that need together. No red tape. No vague outcomes. Just pure, focused love, or Ahava, directed exactly where it counts.
Learn more about Project Ahava