San Diego Mayoral Candidates Address Jewish Community at Chanukah Breakfast

Thank you for your support of the first of many successful Community Connection programs!

The first event of its kind in our community, this forum, hosted by the Jewish Community Relations Center of the Jewish Federation of San Diego County, and Jewish Family Service,brought together nearly 40 community organization partners and over 120 attendees to connect with our two San Diego Mayoral candidates about the issues we care most about. From the City’s finances and infrastructure, to its relationship to Israel, the separation of church and state, and the importance of reducing homelessness—Council Members Alvarez and Faulconer thoughtfully responded to our most pressing questions while sharing how their own values will inform their work.

The program began with a welcome and state of the city from Interim Mayor Todd Gloria who said, “The breakfast provides a tremendous opportunity for San Diegans and the candidates to get to know one another better; “I believe lasting connections will be made at the breakfast, which will fortify the collaborative approach that is necessary for additional progress for our City.” Senator Marty Block commented “I appreciate all the work these organizations do to promote civic discourse and engage our communities in my district”.

This event, the flagship of our new Community Connections series, aims to engage and educate the Jewish community around public policy and government affairs issues. Rabbi Phillip Graubart of Congregation Beth El, served as an excellent moderator. Our hope is that this event represents the beginning of a strong relationship between the Jewish community and San Diego’s next mayor.

Join us for the 2nd program in the Community Connections series—The Implications of the Silver Tsunami: A Senior Policy Panel, Featuring State Senator Marty Block!

We know that by 2030, California will be home to 4 million more residents over age 65 than we have today—pushing the number of seniors to nearly 20% of the state’s population. The consequences are huge, with a potentially greater economic impact than the recent financial crisis. This panel will shed light on the growing needs of this population, and opportunities to address these needs through strategic advocacy and policy solutions. Mark your calendar for this special event on February 21 from 8:00-9:30 at Congregation Beth Israel!