WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14) announced that entities in Ohio received $4,894,687 from the Fiscal Year 2021 Nonprofit Security Grant Program. More than $1,334,306 of that funding went to entities in Northeast Ohio. This critical program provides at-risk organizations with funding for security enhancements and can help houses of worship, such as synagogues, as well as community centers and schools save lives when dealing with threats to public safety.

“The hatred and intolerance that breeds anti-Semitism is the antithesis of what America stands for and we cannot allow it to take root in our society,” said Joyce. “As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud to advocate for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program and remain committed to ensuring all Americans have the freedom to practice their religion without fear. I will always stand with Ohio’s Jewish community against all anti-Semitic threats.”

Last year, Ohio saw its largest increase  in anti-Semitic incidents in over 40 years. According to a report released by the Anti-Defamation League, 63% of the 43 incidents reported in the Buckeye State in 2020 occurred in Northeast Ohio. Those incidents reflect a 72% increase from 2019. Tragically, communities across the country saw a wave of antisemitic attacks in recent months. Online platforms have also seen an appalling uptick in anti-Semitic rhetoric. Between May 7th and May 14th, variations of the phrase “Hitler was right” was found in more than 17,000 tweets.

Last December, Joyce voted to provide this program with $180 million. During a House Appropriations Committee markup earlier this week, Joyce voiced concern over the lack of increase in funding for the Non-Profit Security Grant Program amid the recent rise in anti-Semitic hate crimes. You can watch his remarks here. In May, Joyce cosponsored H.R. 3515, the Preventing Anti-Semitic Hate Crime Act in order to ensure that those who commit vile acts of hate are brought to justice.

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