Amid Growing Antisemitism, US Gov’t Allocates Unprecedented $454 Million for Religious Security

In response to the alarming rise in antisemitism and other threats to religious communities, the U.S. government has announced a historic allocation of $454.5 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) this fiscal year. This marks a significant increase from the $305 million allocated in 2023 and represents the largest sum ever dedicated to the program, which provides vital security enhancements for houses of worship and religious organizations.

The announcement, made by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) last week, comes amid heightened concerns following the October 7 outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict, which has contributed to a surge in antisemitic incidents across the United States. The funding increase of nearly $150 million is seen as a crucial step in protecting vulnerable communities from terrorism and other threats.

"The funds announced today will provide communities across the country with vital resources necessary to strengthen their security and guard against terrorism and other threats," said Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security, in a statement. Mayorkas, who is Jewish, emphasized the lifesaving impact of these grants, noting that they will directly contribute to averting tragedies.

The NSGP, which began in 2005 with an initial allocation of $25 million, has grown exponentially, largely due to the advocacy efforts of Jewish organizations. The program has traditionally allocated most of its funds to Jewish institutions such as synagogues, day schools, and other religious organizations, a trend that continues this year.

However, the funds are available to all denominations facing credible threats, and in recent years, Muslim and Black Christian institutions have also applied for support, often with guidance from Jewish groups experienced in the application process.

"The increased funding is not just financial support; it’s a vital response to the virus of antisemitism spreading across our country," said Nathan Diament, executive director for public policy at the Orthodox Union (OU). The OU has been instrumental in the creation and expansion of the NSGP and continues to advocate for the safety of Jewish communities.

Jewish organizations have been particularly vocal in pushing for increased security funding as antisemitism has surged in recent years. The latest spike in incidents, exacerbated by the conflict between Israel and Hamas, has led to a renewed call for robust protective measures.

Initially, the NSGP was set to receive $274.5 million as part of a bipartisan budget deal, a figure that sparked concern among Jewish groups due to the growing threats. However, an additional $180 million was later added through legislation that provided supplemental aid to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, bringing the total funding to its current record level.

"We were very concerned that the original level appropriated for this lifesaving program would fall short amid the unprecedented spike in antisemitism," said Karen Paikin Barall, vice president of government relations for Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). She noted that the additional funds will have a profound impact on enhancing the security of Jewish communities across the country.

As the NSGP continues to expand, its importance in safeguarding religious institutions in the U.S. has never been more critical. The program's growth reflects a national commitment to protecting the diverse fabric of American religious life from the rising tide of hate and violence.

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