On July 28th, 2026, the National Association of Jewish Legislators (NAJL), in partnership with Jewish Federations of North America and Jewish United Fund (Chicago's Jewish Federation), welcomed more than 60 Jewish legislators from across the United States to its annual Jewish Legislator Breakfast in Chicago, Illinois. NAJL, a nonpartisan association of over 240 Jewish state legislators representing more than 40 states, provides resources and a national network to help Jewish legislators address issues of importance to the Jewish community at the state level.
The breakfast, sponsored by Much Shelist P.C. and the National Insurance Crime Bureau, provided an opportunity for legislators to discuss pressing issues facing Jewish communities, including the alarming rise in antisemitism, evolving security concerns, and continued support for the people of Israel. Just as importantly, the gathering gave legislators the chance to connect with colleagues from across the country, exchange ideas, and share the priorities and challenges they are addressing in their own states and provinces. These conversations, which included key partners from Canada, fostered new relationships, strengthened existing ones, and reinforced the value of a strong network of Jewish public servants working together in support of their communities.
"Our annual NAJL Breakfast demonstrates the power of bringing Jewish legislators together," said NAJL Executive Director Jeff Wice. “The conversations were thoughtful, timely, and collaborative. At a time when our communities are facing unprecedented challenges, opportunities like this to connect, share ideas, and learn from one another are more important than ever. The relationships built during this gathering will continue to strengthen our network and the work our members do on behalf of their constituents."
“NAJL continues to grow and helps create a vibrant network of legislators reaching across the nation,” said NAJL President David Weprin, a New York State Assemblyman.
The event also celebrated an exciting new chapter for NAJL with the unveiling of the organization's new logo and website. The redesigned website includes resources created specifically for Jewish legislators, providing members with valuable tools, information, and opportunities to stay connected throughout the year.
"The launch of NAJL's new logo and website marks an exciting new chapter for our organization," said NAJL Senior Advisor and Former Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates Eileen Filler-Corn. "Our new brand reflects the strength and momentum of NAJL today, while the enhanced website provides resources designed specifically for Jewish legislators. As our reach continues to grow, we're committed to ensuring our members have the tools, information, and connections they need to navigate today's challenges and better serve their communities. This investment supports our members today while positioning NAJL for continued growth in the years ahead.”
The breakfast reflected NAJL’s continued growth and its commitment to supporting Jewish legislators as they represent their communities. As the organization expands its reach and resources, events like this underscore the importance of bringing Jewish legislators together to collaborate, learn from one another, and build lasting partnerships that strengthen both their work and the communities they serve.