Jewish Communal Security Professionals Convene for Homeland Security Summit

Nearly 90 security professionals, including Jewish Federation in the Heart of New Jersey Director of Security Initiatives, Amy Keller, CPP, gathered in New Orleans this week at the 2022 Homeland Security Summit to address the safety and security issues facing the Jewish community. The annual conference was hosted by the Secure Community Network (SCN), a valued Jewish Federation partner in the safety and security of the Jewish community in North America.

Attendees received briefings on security and law enforcement issues; discussed case studies of previous antisemitic attacks; engaged in facilitated discussions and breakout sessions related to emergent threats and issues facing national, regional and community security initiatives; participated in safety trainings; and discussed best practices and national standards.

“This year’s Summit – the largest ever – reflects not only the rising level of antisemitic threats facing the Jewish community but the increasingly professional and sophisticated response our community has mustered,” said SCN National Director and CEO Michael Masters. “Together with our partners throughout local, state, and federal law enforcement, Jewish security professionals and lay leaders are working to create a security shield over the Jewish community. We are grateful to all those who participated in and supported the Summit, the special guests who shared their time and expertise with us, and the Jewish Federations and national organizations throughout North America who are committed to continuously enhancing their communal security programs.”

Featured guest speakers included U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Director Steven Dettelbach; New Orleans Superintendent of Police Shaun Ferguson; former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer; Jefferson Parish, La., Sheriff Joseph Lopinto III; former Ambassador from Israel to the United States Michael Oren; and Douglas Williams Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the New Orleans Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

"Coming together with security leaders from across North America positioned us for continuous improvement in approaches and solutions to making our Jewish communities individually and collectively – more prepared and resilient in the face of growing threats," Amy Keller said. "Thank you to all for sharing your insights and expertise and to SCN for bringing us together as a collective network." 

On a daily basis, Federation helps Jewish organizations keep security awareness and preparedness a top priority. To learn more or get support, visit jewishheartnj.org/security.

0Comments

Add Comment
Subscribe to posts