It is all about the relationship.

Jewish communities in South Florida are strong. Our cities are doing many things right. United Front for Jewish Life exists to ensure Jewish communities live openly, safely, and without intimidation everywhere.

That starts with one thing: showing up together.

1. Know who represents you

   Start with your city council representatives, mayor, city manager, and police chief. Use your city's website to learn what they focus on, how they serve, and where you may have points of connection.

2. Be clear and direct

   Jewish residents expect to live safely and openly, and we are here to ensure that remains the case. Be ready to thank officials who support the community and ask how you can strengthen their actions.

3. Bring details when there is a problem

   If you are dealing with a security or civil-rights concern, prepare the dates, locations, incident details, and practical suggestions for improvement before the meeting.

1. Request the meeting

   Reach out clearly and respectfully. Explain that you are citizens volunteering your time to work with city leaders on behalf of the well-being and security of the Jewish community.

2. Attend with two to four people

   Be respectful, calm, and direct. Credibility matters more than volume.

3. Bring something memorable

   Rugelach, cookies, or a tray of candy goes a long way with elected officials and their staff.

4. Follow up

   Exchange contact information, send a written thank-you, and stay in touch. Relationships, not one-time meetings, create influence.

Do not meet police only after something bad happens. First learn about existing relationships between the security teams at your synagogue, school, or JCC and local police or sheriffs.

When meeting with police leadership

• Begin with sincere appreciation for their service.Thank them for protecting houses of worship, schools, and community events.
• Ask how the Jewish community can be a better partner.Learn who your community liaison officers are and exchange contact information.
• Ask about emergency response procedures.Understand active threat analysis and planning so you can communicate responsibly with the community.
• Invite officers into community life.Community events turn officers into familiar faces before a crisis.

Most elected officials want to serve all residents fairly. Occasionally, you may encounter someone who is dismissive, unwilling to engage, or openly hostile toward Jewish concerns.

Do not argue. Stay organized.

• Stay calm, respectful, and professional.Clearly state your concerns and ask direct questions.
• Listen carefully and take notes.If they refuse to help, politely end the meeting.
• Follow up in writing.Summarize what was discussed and preserve the record.
• Keep showing up publicly.Attend public meetings, build relationships with others, and encourage more Jewish residents to become visible.

Our goal is not confrontation. Our goal is to ensure every elected official understands there is an informed, engaged, and growing Jewish community that participates in civic life and expects equal treatment under the law.

• Stronger relationships with elected officialsOfficials know who to call and who is paying attention.
• Greater responsiveness from governmentClear, respectful relationships make follow-up easier.
• Increased visibility for community concernsPresence turns private worry into public civic participation.
• Real influence over decisions that affect our livesNumbers, preparation, and consistency change how officials hear us.
• A safer environment for Jewish lifeWe show up. We engage. We build relationships. We are heard.