A community member asks a question of a candidate at JCRC's 2018 gubernatorial candidate forum.

ABOUT THE JEWISH COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL

The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford advocates, educates, collaborates, and mobilizes the Jewish community to ensure a strong and secure Jewish future. JCRC builds alliances within and outside the Jewish community, educating and galvanizing the community on issues of social justice, enhancing the community’s understanding of Israel, combating antisemitism and hate, and advocating for public policy consistent with Jewish values.

Learn more about JCRC's work below, or contact Laura Zimmerman, Interim Director, Jewish Community Relations Council.

 

Government Relations

The JCRC defends civil, political, economic and religious rights of people of all faiths and backgrounds; we protect the separation of church and state; and we help to pass legislation that mirrors these values. In election years, we also hold community forums with candidates for executive and legislative office in partnership with the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut (JFACT). Click here to view our legislative policy priorities for 2024.

Israel

Our Federation and JCRC stand with Israel. We work diligently to educate and advocate on behalf of Israel and to strongly support a safe, Jewish and democratic State of Israel. We work with The Jewish Federations of North America and our Israeli partners to enhance security and quality of life for Israeli citizens. Greater Hartford has a sister relationship with the Afula-Gilboa region of Israel, where we support and participate in human services programs; cultural, educational and professional exchanges; and missions and visits.

Social Justice

JCRC's work is grounded in a commitment to Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world. Our Social Justice Task Force leads educational, advocacy, and volunteer efforts around issues that touch vulnerable residents of our region and marginalized people everywhere.

Interfaith Relations

JCRC works with our neighbors of all faiths for the common good. Building relationships and collaboration with other communities and organizations enables us to improve the lives of Connecticut’s most vulnerable residents. Through interfaith social opportunities and educational programs, we live out Jewish ethics and values while strengthening and celebrating the Jewish community in Greater Hartford.

Volunteering and Advocacy

JCRC can connect you to a number of volunteering and advocacy opportunities. Click here for some examples of volunteer opportunities, and visit our Jewish Community Relations Guide for tips on contacting your legislators, writing letters to the editor, and more.