On Jan. 22, nearly 30 representatives from 15 Jewish organizations and synagogues across St. Louis gathered at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City for Missouri Jewish Advocacy Day. Their mission was clear: to ensure Jewish voices were heard, advocate for increased security funding and educate lawmakers about the threats facing Jewish communities in Missouri and beyond.
For many, it was their first time engaging in state-level advocacy. For others, it was a continuation of their long-standing commitment to fighting for Jewish safety, representation and rights. But for everyone, the day was a testament to the power of just showing up.
The power of presence
For Galit Lev-Harir, an advocate with Friends of Israel, the day brought a shocking realization.
“Neither of my representatives knew that their Jewish constituents feel at risk of terrorist attacks when attending synagogue or other Jewish events,” she said. “They had no idea about the attack at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh where 11 people were killed in 2018, the Kansas City JCC shooting in 2014 or even the hostage crisis in Colleyville, Texas in 2022. It is important to share those stories so they understand the critical need for security funding for Jewish citizens in Missouri.”
Education and awareness were central themes throughout the day. Brandon Rosen, who had previously advocated for Jewish security on a federal level, participated in state-level advocacy for the first time.
“It was great meeting my local legislators and their staff, all of whom seemed sympathetic to our cause regardless of political affiliation,” Rosen said. “I hope they consider voting yes on these bills because the impact reaches beyond just our Jewish community—it’s about protecting all Missourians targeted by hateful extremists.”
Building relationships, creating change
Participants engaged in discussions with lawmakers, urging them to support nonprofit security grants to help synagogues, churches and mosques protect themselves against rising threats.
For Amy Lutz, director of marketing and communications at the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum, the day was as much about building connections as it was about policy.
“We really enjoyed reconnecting with Sen. Lincoln Hough, who was very supportive of the museum during our capital campaign,” Lutz said. “It was great to see that he is still passionate about our museum and our mission.”
Others found encouragement in the warm reception from lawmakers. Marilen Pitler, a longtime advocate with the National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis, felt their message was truly heard.
“The legislators and their assistants listened. I felt positive vibes,” Pitler said. “Not only was I able to meet with my legislators, but I was also able to visit with others cementing friendships and teamwork.”
A diverse group, a unified message
One of the most striking aspects of this year’s Advocacy Day was the composition of the group. The majority of attendees were women and many were first-time advocates.
“Being among a group of mostly women was so impactful,” Lutz said. “It’s a reminder of how much we are capable of when we raise our voices and join our hands.”
For Scott Biondo, community security director at Jewish Federation of St. Louis, the diversity of participants only strengthened their cause.
“Our group was made up of representatives from the (Jewish Community Relations Council), the Holocaust Museum, Federation and multiple synagogues,” Biondo said. “It was a strong cross-section of our community coming together.”
What comes next?
While Advocacy Day raised awareness, the work is far from over. Many participants left the Capitol energized and eager to return next year with even more people by their side.
“I would highly recommend that our community members attend Advocacy Day next year,” Lutz said. “Even if you’ve never been to the Capitol before, the experience is worth it because of the camaraderie and impact.”
Pitler reinforced this sentiment. “Not to be afraid to speak out,” she said. “Our legislators represent us and we must make our voices heard.”
For Joel Iskiwitch, board chair of the JCRC, the day reflected the mission of his organization.
“One of the key goals of the Jewish Community Relations Council of St. Louis is to convene the Jewish community to take actions affecting all of us,” Iskiwitch said. “It was exciting to see so many organizations and synagogues send representatives to Jefferson City to advocate for supplemental security grants. The fact that the bills have bipartisan support made our conversations with the legislature that much more productive.”
As the Jewish community continues to fight for security, representation and justice, one thing is clear: advocacy works. And it starts with showing up.
