In this episode, Daniel Schwartz and Simona Bogode share the story behind the launch of the American Jewish Alliance and how it grew out of the grassroots work of the Chicago Jewish Alliance after October 7. They reflect on the fear, isolation, and rising antisemitism that pushed them into advocacy, from Chicago’s ceasefire resolution and campus encampments to school board battles and community mobilization. They explain how CJA built a practical playbook rooted in transparency, member support, Jewish joy, unapologetic Zionism, and rapid grassroots action. The episode also introduces the broader vision for AJA: bringing this model to communities across the country, supported by leaders like Dr. Charles Jacobs, Pam, Richard, and the wider team, while keeping the focus on protecting Jewish life, strengthening allies, and empowering the next generation.
00:00 – Launching the American Jewish Alliance
00:32 – How Chicago Jewish Alliance Inspired a National Movement
01:28 – Communities Across the Country Start Reaching Out
02:34 – Building a Grassroots Playbook Against Anti-Israel Activism
04:29 – Chicago’s Ceasefire Resolution and Coordinated Campaigns
05:44 – The Fear and Isolation After October 7
09:34 – A Political Reset for the Jewish Community
11:31 – Finding Unity Across Political Differences
13:16 – Western Values, Civil Discourse, and Merit
17:00 – Daniel’s Stand at Chicago City Hall
19:20 – How Chicago Jewish Alliance Was Born
22:00 – Simona Joins the Movement at the DePaul Rally
24:20 – Campus Encampments, Jewish Joy, and Community Action
27:20 – From Volunteer Effort to Organized Advocacy
34:00 – Membership, Town Halls, and Community-Driven Funding
36:00 – Dr. Charles Jacobs and the Intellectual Backbone of AJA
41:55 – The Team Behind the Expansion
48:00 – Website, Chapters, Social Media, and Scaling the Mission
51:10 – Jewish Joy, the Next Generation, and Why They Continue to Show Up