The Federation’s Jewish Community Relations Committee (JCRC) brings together and mobilizes the Jewish community on critical issues—amplifying our collective voice.
We foster meaningful relationships among diverse ethnic, racial, religious, and interest groups, building coalitions based on mutual areas of concern.
The JCRC educates and advocates at the local, state, and national levels to advance Jewish concerns in the public arena.
JCRC is a trusted resource for our community, political, and faith-based partners, providing insights and support on community and government relations matters.
We work both behind the scenes and on the front lines. The JCRC’s policy positions are formed based on consensus and civility, reflecting and with respect for our community’s diversity.
Our work is organized through several specialized subcommittees, each dedicated to a specific area of community relations and advocacy. Here is an overview of these vital subcommittees:
Legislative/Government Affairs Subcommittee Chair: Amy Melnick-Scharf
This subcommittee is the cornerstone of our interactions with State, Local and Federal legislators and government officials.
It coordinates our annual Legislative Reception and Virginia Jewish Advocacy Day programming, facilitating outreach to new and continuing legislators and officials.
This subcommittee also conducts thorough reviews of General Assembly bills and sets our yearly advocacy agenda. Our efforts ensure that Jewish voices are heard and considered in the legislative processes.
Israel Education and Advocacy Chair: Maya Eckstein
Our Israel Education and Advocacy subcommittee focuses on educating our community about the multi-faceted nature of Israel, emphasizing its diversity and economic development as the only democracy in the Middle East.
We strive to counteract the delegitimization of Israel and distinguish between antisemitism and legitimate criticism of Israeli policies. Through our programming, we aim to present a balanced and informed perspective on Israel.
K-12 Education and Advocacy Subcommittee Co-Chairs: Miriam Davidow and Larry Goldman
We work closely with local school districts and government officials to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for Jewish students. A significant part of our work includes advocating for Holocaust education as a tool to confront rising antisemitism and addressing all forms of racism and discrimination.
Recently, we successfully advocated for the Jewish High Holiday (this year only on Rosh HaShanah as Yom Kippur, the usual day acknowledged, is on a Saturday) to be recognized as a school holiday in Richmond, Henrico and Chesterfield Counties, reflecting our commitment to religious observance and inclusion.
Higher Education/Advocacy Subcommittee Chair: Currently Recruiting
Our Higher Ed Subcommittee focuses on building relationships with the various leaders of our Higher Ed institution to advocate for the Jewish students and faculty.
We proactively work with our on-campus partners such as Hillel and Chabad to address racism, discrimination and hate to support a safe inclusive environment.
Intergroup and Interfaith Outreach Subcommittee Interim Chair: Marvin Daniel
Our Intergroup and Interfaith Outreach subcommittee conducts outreach to various faith and ethnic communities within Richmond.
This subcommittee leads programming on racism and equity, fostering dialogue and cooperation among diverse groups. By working collaboratively with other committees, we address overlapping issues and promote a more inclusive and understanding community.
Getting Involved
The strength and success of the JCRC relies on the dedication and passion of our community members. We welcome anyone who is interested in making a difference to join us.
Whether you have a keen inter-est in fighting antisemitism, legislative affairs, a passion for education, advocating for Israel or a desire to build interfaith relationships, there is a place for you in the JCRC.
Together, we can continue to work for justice, to foster unity, and to ensure that the Richmond Jewish community remains vibrant and resilient.
To get involved, please contact us at the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond. Your participation can make a profound impact, and we look forward to working together for a brighter future.
Debra Rodman, Ph.D., drodman@jewishrichmond.org – Director, Jewish Community Relations Committee of JCFR
Rob Slotnick rob.slotnick@gmail.com – Chair, Jewish Community Relations Committee of JCFR
