We write with deep sadness about the unrest and loss of life that has occurred in the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. 
 

We have been in close touch with both Federation communities and have offered any support they need as they navigate these difficult and evolving challenges. We are sharing with you the statement from the Minneapolis Federation and the statement from the St. Paul Federation. We think that the words of those who are most directly affected by these events and who are ultimately responsible for the well-being of their communities are the most powerful testament to what is on the hearts and minds of those who live there. We thank the Federation leaders for their critical work and devotion to our mission of serving the Jewish community in times of strength and times of challenge.
 

The primary responsibility of Federations will always be the security of the communities we serve. Our Federations in Minneapolis and St. Paul, like all Federations, have created and funded a professional community security program that is operating at full strength during these difficult days. Through the Jewish Federations of North America’s Tepper grant program, they have also reached out to other communities of faith to assist in protecting all places of worship. Knowing that the issues happening in Minnesota could happen elsewhere, we are preparing security guidance, together with the Secure Community Network, that we will share with all Federations shortly.
 

The Federations impacted by these events are also monitoring closely the health and well-being of the most vulnerable populations in the community. We all hope that any interrupted services will quickly be resumed, and we all stand ready to help address any challenges that arise.
 

We will keep you posted of any developments that directly affect our Federation system, and welcome your feedback, comments and suggestions on this important matter.
 

Even as we write about the sadness in Minneapolis and St. Paul, we also note the sense of relief and closure that the entire Jewish world is experiencing with the return of the final hostage, the great Jewish hero, Ran Gvili. May his memory be a blessing and may his family be comforted among all the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. May this significant milestone of the return of the final hostage begin a new era of hope, peace and unity for the Jewish people everywhere.
 

The release of the final hostage coincides with our reading this Shabbat of the release of the Jewish people from slavery and the destruction of their Egyptian tormentors. It is an opportune time to reflect on the timelessness of the Jewish story and the Jewish message. We are truly one people, with one Torah and one mission to bring light into the world. May we all go from strength to strength.
 

God bless all of you. Am Yisrael Chai!

Gary Torgow is the Chair, Board of Trustees of Jewish Federations of North America. Eric Fingerhut is the President and CEO of Jewish Federations of North America.