Three Years After October 7, Survey Shows 38% of American Jews Deepened Involvement in Jewish Life

Three years after the October 7 attacks, a survey by the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) reveals a sustained and growing engagement among American Jews with Jewish life. Conducted in May-June among 2,836 respondents, the survey found that 38% of participants have deepened their involvement since the Hamas attack—a 7% increase from the previous year. This trend suggests that the heightened connection to Jewish identity and community, initially sparked by the attacks, has not waned but rather continued to strengthen.

The survey highlights two key factors driving this increased involvement: a stronger emotional connection to Israel and heightened awareness of anti-Semitism. Those who have become more engaged in Jewish life are more likely to express pride in their Jewish identity due to their connection to Israel and to report experiencing anti-Semitic incidents, including online harassment. These findings underscore the complex interplay between security concerns, identity, and communal belonging in shaping Jewish engagement.

Despite the challenges, informal social gatherings have emerged as a significant factor in maintaining Jewish connections. Shabbat meals with friends and other casual Jewish encounters were frequently cited by respondents as the most impactful way to sustain involvement. This suggests that community-building through shared traditions and personal relationships plays a vital role in reinforcing Jewish identity and solidarity.

The survey also identified obstacles to deeper involvement, with political tensions surrounding Israel and anti-Semitism being the most notable. Some respondents expressed feeling too critical of Israel within their communities, while others reported being targeted for their views. These challenges highlight the delicate balance between advocating for Israel and navigating the broader landscape of Jewish life and identity.

The data also reveals a growing perception of anti-Semitism in the United States. While 65% of respondents now believe there is “a lot” of anti-Semitism in the country, this figure rose from 45% in 2020. This shift reflects a broader awareness of the challenges faced by Jewish communities, particularly in the wake of the October 7 attacks and the subsequent global discourse on Israel and anti-Semitism.

Mimi Krevetz, vice president of influence and growth for JFNA, emphasized that Jewish institutions continue to adapt to meet the evolving needs of the community. She noted that American Jews “create and seek Jewish life in many different ways,” underscoring the diversity of engagement and the importance of inclusive, accessible community spaces.

The findings offer a sober reflection on the resilience and adaptability of Jewish communities in the face of adversity. As the survey shows, the connection to Jewish life is not merely a political or security issue but a deeply personal and communal endeavor. In this context, the call to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8) remains a guiding principle for fostering unity, understanding, and peace.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Hebrew)