Newsom funds security for places of worship during Israel-Hamas conflict.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom Boosts Security Funding for Places of Worship Amidst Middle East Conflict
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has taken decisive action to ensure the safety of worshippers across the state by approving millions in state funding for increased security measures at places of worship. In response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Gov. Newsom announced on Oct. 18 that he has authorized $10 million to immediately enhance police presence, with the intention of reimbursing local governments. The aim is to provide a sense of security for Californians as they gather to worship, particularly in the wake of the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas on locations in Israel.
The devastating toll of the conflict is evident, with over 1,400 Israelis killed and 4,600 injured as of Oct. 19, according to Israeli officials. Meanwhile, the Hamas-controlled Gaza Ministry of Health reported that at least 3,700 Palestinians have been killed and 12,500 injured since the initial attack.
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In a press release, Gov. Newsom expressed his commitment to ensuring the safety of all Californians, stating, “Amid the horror unfolding in the Middle East following the unconscionable terrorist attacks in Israel, California is authorizing the immediate deployment of funds to increase security and police presence at places of worship across the state. No matter how and where one prays, every Californian deserves to be safe.”
Local groups have voiced concerns about potential violent attacks and hate crimes during the Israel-Hamas war, making Gov. Newsom’s announcement all the more significant.
Both sides of the issue have expressed gratitude for the governor’s actions. Assemblyman Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) and Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), co-chairs of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, believe that the allocated resources will make a significant difference and send a powerful message within their community.
“We are deeply grateful to Governor Newsom for his long-standing solidarity with the Jewish community and for standing with us in word and in deed during these challenging times. California cannot stand idly by while the Jewish community or any other vulnerable community is threatened by hate and extremism,” said the co-chairs in an Oct. 18 statement.
Hussam Ayloush, CEO of Council on American-Islamic Relations California, also commended the governor’s proactive measures, stating, “California Muslims are increasingly anxious as we observe dangerous rhetoric that continues to dehumanize Palestinians and Muslims, and which leads to a rise in anti-Muslim incidents targeting students, employees, and everyday Muslims in their homes or on the street. Everyone deserves to be safe.”
Furthermore, Gov. Newsom announced an additional $20 million investment in the State Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which provides security enhancements to nonprofit organizations considered high risk for violent attacks and hate crimes, including synagogues and mosques. This program, established in 2018, aims to fund security measures for nonprofits that face threats due to their ideology, beliefs, or mission.
According to Gov. Newsom’s office, this additional funding doubles the available funds from $20 million to $40 million. Nonprofits have until Oct. 27 to apply for funding under this program.
How will the funds be used to enhance the security of places of worship?
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