Civil Rights

Scroll down

As Jews, we believe that every human being, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, or physical or mental ability is deserving of full inclusion and every opportunity. This belief underpins our work to advance civil rights.

NCJW advocates for policies that promote equal rights, end discrimination, and encourage opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds, such as:

  • LGBTQ equality and inclusion, including fighting poverty, homelessness, violence, and discrimination;
  • Overhauling our broken and racially-biased criminal justice system, in which 2 million are currently incarcerated, disproportionately people of color;
  • Improving hate crime laws to protect marginalized communities from bias and violence;
  • Expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities; and
  • Ensuring that all children have the opportunity to learn and be educated.

From the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr., Hate Crimes Prevention Act, NCJW has been and continues to be on the front lines helping to enact landmark civil rights legislation.

Check out our Civil Rights Action Resources

31 states lack fully-inclusive non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ individuals.

See More Work Areas