The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington is the public affairs and community relations arm of the Jewish community representing 210 Jewish organizations and synagogues throughout DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Since 1938, the JCRC has focused its efforts on government relations, Israel advocacy, inter-group relations, and social justice.  

When the legislative session opens on January 12th, several bills already will be high on the Jewish community’s radar screen. Among proposed legislation treading on the separation of church and state is House Joint Bill 537, a suggested amendment to Virginia’s Constitution that would permit prayer on public property, including in public schools.

When Jaime Banks from Adat Shalom Congregation presented a book from her personal “library” to read with her partner student, his eyes widened and he asked, “You have your own library?” For many of the students we work with, the book they received this year from the JCRC/ Greater Washington Jewish Coalition for Literacy book drive was the first book they have ever owned.