Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission (THGAAC) to expand their efforts in supporting the Jewish community amid the ongoing Israeli conflict. During an emergency meeting at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Governor Abbott urged the commission members to identify ways to quickly report and take pre-emptive action against acts of antisemitism.

In his address to the commission, Governor Abbott emphasized the urgency of their duties in combating antisemitism, especially in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict and the increasing incidents of antisemitism worldwide. He stated, "These acts of hate and genocide must end. A core mission of the Commission is to combat antisemitism and share expertise and effective strategies to address accelerating antisemitism in the state of Texas. Texas stands with Israel, Israel's right to defend itself, and with our Jewish neighbors here in Texas."

During the meeting, THGAAC Chairman Kenny Goldberg presented Governor Abbott with a copy of The Book of Jewish Knowledge, which highlights the achievements and contributions of the Jewish people throughout history. The meeting was attended by other members of the commission and Consul General of Israel to the Southwest, Livia Link-Raviv.

Governor Abbott also highlighted the steps taken by Texas to enhance security and combat antisemitism in the state. These measures include distributing over $4 million in grant funding to 31 Jewish organizations for security enhancements, coordinating with local partners and federal intelligence agencies to implement heightened public safety measures, and issuing an Executive Order prohibiting the purchase of goods from the Gaza Strip and from any organization or state actor with ties to Hamas.

Furthermore, Governor Abbott ordered Texas flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the lives lost during the conflict in Israel. The state has also focused on bolstering education resources to increase awareness and understanding of the Israel-Hamas war among Texas students.

Governor Abbott's support for Israel and the Jewish community is not new. He has previously established the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission and provided more than $19 million in funding for security enhancement projects in houses of worship, including synagogues. Additionally, he has banned all state agencies from engaging in business or investments with companies that boycott Israel.

The Governor's directive to expand the efforts of THGAAC demonstrates Texas' commitment to combatting antisemitism and supporting the Jewish community during this challenging time.

To learn more, click on this link: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-directs-thgaac-to-expand-jewish-community-support-efforts-amid-israeli-conflict