Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater

Mission Statement

The Community Relations Council (CRC) is a standing committee of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and one of 135 member agencies of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. The CRC serves as the voice of the organized Jewish community in addressing the mandate of the Jewish community relations field. That mandate includes:

• Safeguarding the rights of Jews here, in Israel, and around the world
• Protecting, preserving, and promoting a just American society, one that is democratic and pluralistic.
• Developing relationships with other groups in the local community to build bridges and coalitions of understanding and good will.

The CRC addresses the entire range of public affairs issues that affect Jews – including Middle East peace and Israeli security, Holocaust education, civil rights and liberties, poverty and justice, anti-Semitism and other forms of prejudice, inter-group relations, environmental and public health issues, and international human rights.

The CRC is composed of representatives from Jewish agencies, organizations, and synagogues in Tidewater, along with at-large members appointed at the Chair's discretion. Members of the CRC are encouraged to play an advocacy role by speaking to elected officials regarding legislation that may have an impact on the Jewish community. CRC members are also charged with reporting on issues discussed at CRC meetings to the organizations they represent and articulating them to the larger Jewish community as well as the greater Tidewater community.

The work of the CRC reflects the profound Jewish commitment to tikkun olam, repairing the world. It expresses the conviction of the organized Jewish community that it must be active in the effort to build a just society.