The recent increase in anti-Semitism is abhorrent. With waves of threats aimed at Jewish Community Centers and the desecration of synagogues and cemeteries across our nation, and growing threats around the world, meaningful action is overdue. This past week, I proudly joined with colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urging him to fill the Special Envoy for Anti-Semitism position at the State Department. Additionally, in recent weeks, my office in Washington, D.C. welcomed leaders from the American Jewish Congress, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and the Zionist Organization of America, and my senior staff and I were able to speak extensively with them on formulating policies for fighting anti-Semitism and on other subjects.

It is incumbent on all aspects of our government to consistently denounce religious intolerance. The appointment of the special envoy to monitor and combat anti-Semitism would demonstrate the commitment of the United States to the well-being of Jewish communities around the world. I look forward to continue working with Secretary Pompeo and my congressional colleagues to make this appointment a swift and effective reality.

Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ-09)

Member of Congress