US Jewish Community Deepens Ties to Judaism Post-Oct. 7
Translated & summarized from JDN by baba
A survey of 3,000 American Jews by the Jewish Federations of North America found that 38% have increased their engagement with Jewish life and their connection to Judaism since the October 7th Hamas attack. The study also revealed heightened concerns about antisemitism and a stronger emotional bond with Israel among this group. This trend of increased Jewish engagement is reportedly accelerating, with Jewish institutions working to meet the growing needs of the community.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- 38% of American Jews report increased engagement with Jewish life and Judaism since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack.
- The survey of 3,000 American Jews was conducted by the Jewish Federations of North America.
- Those who deepened their Jewish ties also showed a stronger emotional connection to Israel.
- Concerns about antisemitism in the US have risen significantly, with 65% reporting 'a lot' of it.
- The trend of increased Jewish engagement is accelerating, according to the Jewish Federations.
- 94% of those who grew closer to Judaism believe Israel has a right to exist.
A new survey by the Jewish Federations of North America reveals that 38% of American Jews report increased engagement in Jewish life and a strengthened connection to Judaism since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The survey, which polled approximately 3,000 American Jews, also indicates widespread concern about antisemitism and a stronger emotional bond with Israel among those who have deepened their Jewish ties.
This marks the third annual survey conducted by the organization to assess changes in Jewish life following the attack. After a decline last year, the percentage of respondents reporting increased closeness to Judaism rose this year to over one-third of those surveyed.
Significant differences emerged in respondents' attitudes toward Israel. Among those who deepened their connection to Judaism, 93% reported an emotional link to Israel, compared to 51% of those who did not report such a connection. Furthermore, 94% of those who grew closer to Judaism believe Israel has a right to exist, versus 74% in the other group. Additionally, 75% felt Israel evokes pride in their Jewish identity, compared to 36% among those who did not report a strengthening of their Jewish identity.
Concurrently, 65% of all respondents believe there is "a lot" of antisemitism in the United States, an increase from 45% in 2020. Those who deepened their connection to Jewish life expressed higher concern about antisemitism.
Yumi Kerbitz, VP of Impact at the Jewish Federations of North America, stated that the findings indicate a continuing trend. "Many expected the increased interest in Jewish life to fade over time, but our data show the trend is not only holding but accelerating since last year," she said. Kerbitz added, "American Jews are actively creating and seeking various ways to participate in Jewish life. Jewish institutions, including the Federations, continue to respond to this need."
The organization noted that the data helps understand community needs and the impact of antisemitism, emphasizing the necessity of frameworks to support growing engagement.
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