The Jewish Council on Urban Affairs is working to transform Chicago into a city free of poverty, racism and antisemitism, by mobilizing the Jewish community to be a powerful voice for economic and racial justice. For 55 years, we have worked in partnership with diverse coalitions and directly impacted communities to address the root causes of disparity and advocate for concrete improvements in people’s lives. With a growing membership of nearly 2,000 Jews across Chicagoland, we bring a committed base to three main program areas: issue-based campaigns, youth engagement and community investment. JCUA is the only Jewish organization based in Chicago using a community organizing model to advance systemic change on domestic issues with a local focus.
We hope you join us.

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JCUA is currently active on three major issue campaigns:

police accountability

We’re pushing for civilian oversight and accountability measures for the Chicago Police Department. We’re active in the coalitions to pass the Grassroots Alliance for Police Accountability (GAPA) ordinance and the recommendations from the Coalition for Police Contracts Accountability (CPCA).

immigration justice

We’re standing with immigrants who face dire threats from the federal administration by supporting policies that make Chicago a welcoming place for everyone. We’re active in the coalition working to remove the carve-outs in the Welcoming City Ordinance and working to end the use of the city’s Gang Database.

Progressive tax POLICY

Over the next year, we’re working to ensure that the Fair Tax 2020 referendum for Illinois passes on Election Day, which will create a graduated state income tax and generate much-needed revenue for public goods and services.