Why the Jewish Future Isn’t Guaranteed: A Call to Action for Every Jew

We like to tell ourselves that the Jewish people are eternal. We have survived Pharaohs, inquisitions, pogroms, and genocide. History does not guarantee our future— we do. If we fail to take responsibility for the survival of our people, we will be complicit in our decline. The time for passive optimism is over. We must act now.

The Crisis We Can No Longer Ignore

Assimilation is not a myth—it’s a crisis. In many parts of the world, Jewish identity is eroding at an alarming rate. Young Jews are disengaging from communal life, and religious and cultural traditions are fading with each generation. This is not a coincidence. It is the result of a Jewish world that too often assumes its endurance without actively nurturing it.

Meanwhile, antisemitism is surging across the globe. What was once whispered in the shadows is now shouted in the streets. Jewish students face hostility on college campuses. Synagogues require armed security. Online hate is rampant, and Israel—the heart of the Jewish people—is under relentless attack, not only militarily but ideologically. This is our reality, and we cannot afford to look away.

The Jewish Future Promise: A Commitment to Action

In the face of these challenges, every Jew must ask: What am I doing to ensure the Jewish people continue to thrive? This is where the Jewish Future Promise comes in. It is a simple yet powerful promise— that if any charitable contributions are made upon passing, whether that be $10 or $10 million, at least 50% will be allocated to Jewish causes and/or the State of Israel. But beyond philanthropy, it is a declaration of responsibility. It is a commitment to securing a vibrant Jewish future for us and future generations.

For a devoted grandmother and retired teacher, the Jewish Future Promise ensures her grandchildren remain connected to Jewish traditions despite rising assimilation. For a father balancing modern life with passing on Jewish values, this is a way to strengthen Jewish education and support Israel. For a young professional engaged in global Jewish culture, this initiative provides a way to keep Jewish identity relevant and meaningful. For a small business owner invested in sustaining Jewish institutions, this promise ensures the survival of schools, synagogues, and communal organizations. And a progressive advocate for Jewish inclusivity, the promise is a path toward making Judaism accessible, diverse, and socially impactful. 

Inspiring Participation From Jewish Youth

Many young adults don’t feel drawn to traditional forms of Jewish engagement. To reach them, we must find ways to connect with their interests that feel natural and exciting. Jewish identity should be something they actively experience—not just something they scroll past on social media. When we create vibrant, social, and purpose-driven spaces—where being Jewish feels empowering, relevant, and even cool—we give them a reason to lean in. It’s about making Jewish life something they want to be part of rather than something they feel obligated to observe.

When young people see Judaism as something that enhances their lives, they won’t just participate. They’ll say, I want to be there. I want to be a part of that.

Harnessing the Power of Digital and Community Engagement

We know storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for securing our future. That’s why we use digital platforms to inspire, educate, and rally the Jewish world. Our Instagram and other social media channels are filled with real stories of Jews taking action—making pledges, teaching traditions to the next generation, and standing proudly in their identity.

But engagement isn’t just about scrolling past a post. It’s about participation. If you’re looking to merge your Jewish identity with social justice, share how Jewish values inspire activism. If you’re balancing work and family, share how you make Jewish traditions relevant for your children. If you’re a grandparent, be sure to tell your grandchildren about your heritage. The Jewish Future Promise is about mobilizing action online and in real life.

The Power of Collective Action

We are not powerless. Our history has proven that when Jews come together, we are unstoppable. The rebirth of Israel, the rescue of Soviet Jewry, and the strength of Jewish institutions—these were all made possible by a collective Jewish will. Now, we must channel that same energy into preserving our future.

This is not just about donating money. It is about engagement. It is about parents passing Jewish values to their children. It is about strengthening Jewish education and community institutions. It is about standing up against antisemitism in all its forms. It is about ensuring that being Jewish remains something to be proud of, not hidden or forgotten.

A Call to Every Jew

If you are reading this, you have a role to play. It does not matter if you are religious or secular, left or right, Ashkenazi or Sephardi. The Jewish future belongs to all of us, and it will only survive if we fight for it.

Jewish survival is not guaranteed. But together, we can make it so.