Jewish Community Relations Council

Who is the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC)?

Founded in 1938, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) advocates for the rights and values of Jews individually and collectively, here and abroad. The Council implements a coordinated program of education, action, and advocacy for the Jewish community. 

On March 1, 2010, the Council became a core function of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation.

Download our brochure for more information about the JCRC.

Our Mission
The Jewish Community Relations Council speaks as the representative voice of the Jewish community on its public affairs and community relations issues. The Council provides leadership in safeguarding Jewish security and the rights of Jews everywhere. Integral to the Council’s mission is increasing knowledge of and support for Israel. Working to create and maintain a pluralistic, democratic American society, the Council promotes equal rights and opportunities, individual dignity and intergroup relations. The Council’s agenda reflects an enduring commitment to tikkun olam, "the repair of the world." To achieve these goals, the Council implements a coordinated program of education, advocacy and social justice. 
 
The JCRC board includes 28 organizational members representing Milwaukee area synagogues and Jewish organizations, an equal number of at-large members, past presidents of the Council, and board officers. The Council is a core function of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation and is one of 122 Jewish community relations councils affiliated with the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. Areas for JCRC programs and activities include:

Counteracting Anti-Semitism and Discrimination and Protecting Jewish Security
Building Support for Israel
Promoting Social and Economic Justice
Safeguarding Equal Rights and Opportunities
Advancing Intergroup Dialogue and Understanding
Strengthening Intra-Communal Relationships
Coordinating Advocacy Efforts
Resource Clearinghouse and Consultation

Contact Us

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Report an

Anti-Semitism Incident

Click here to report an anti-Semitic incident.

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What's hot right now?


Right now, we are working on our JCRC 75th anniversary celebration! June 18 at 7:00 p.m. Click here for more info!

What have we been up to, you ask?

 

Iran Briefing

October 29, 2012

Watch a video of our Iran Briefing with Bob Federman from United Against Nuclear Iran (UANI).

 

Shooting at Sikh Temple in Oak Creek

August 2012

Learn about the tragic events in Oak Creek.  Read a statement of solidarity from the Milwaukee Jewish Community. 

 

There has been a strong showing of support in the wake of this incident, with a diverse array of 203 national and local organizations, including the Jewish Community Relations Council, that represent a range of communities and social justice issues.  These organizations joined the “We Are All Sikhs” statement developed by SAALT and Muslim Advocates.  Read the statement here

 

With the endorsement of Sikh leaders, The Interfaith Conference is collecting donations for the victims and their families, including the wounded Oak Creek police officer. They will give the money to authorized Sikh temple leaders, who will distribute it responsibly. You can donate online at  www.interfaithconference.org.

 

Meet Elana Kahn-Oren, JCRC Director

JCRC DIrector Elana Kahn-Oren brings to her position a passion for community relations work and many years’ experience in the Milwaukee Jewish community, most recently as Editor of The Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle.