The start of the release of the hostages that remain in Hamas captivity is bittersweet. The return of those still alive to their loved ones is long overdue, and the return of the dead to their families will ensure they are laid to rest properly. In the story of this tragedy, healing is complicated, and closure impossible.
Philanthropies and charities in our country have stepped up to support Israel as it has fought for its right to security and existence and will continue to do so. Supporting those who share our values is a quintessential trait of American philanthropy, and the return of the hostages marks the beginning of a new chapter in the ways this community can help in the aftermath of unthinkable horror.
But with a new administration taking office this week and a new Congress underway, more must be done to ensure generous Americans can continue freely supporting Israel. Under the Biden administration, overreaching sanctions threatened to chill donors with a threat of de-banking those sending aid to communities facing terrorist threats.
At least two lawsuits are underway, challenging the sanctions. Read more about them here and here. The Trump administration has a seismic opportunity to not only rescind Biden’s executive order and subsequent sanctions but to settle these lawsuits and set meaningful protective precedents for philanthropic freedom in the wake of rising antisemitism at home and abroad. Congress can enact meaningful guardrails to prevent future attacks on philanthropic activity, while also helping to ensure U.S. charitable dollars are not funding groups and individuals seeking to do us harm.
Now is the time for new leaders to protect freedom of speech and stand up against efforts to chill those supporting Israel.
Learn more about this important issue here.
