By: UJF CEO Diane Sloyer 

I am honored to share with you the key findings from the Jewish Federations of North America’s 2025 Survey of Jewish Life since October 7. This comprehensive study, conducted between March 5 and March 25, 2025, offers invaluable insights into how the Jewish  community continues to respond, adapt, and thrive in the wake of unprecedented challenges. The data not only reflects the resilience and dynamism of Jewish life in America but also provides a roadmap for how we at Federation, as communal leaders and partners, can best serve and support our constituents in the months and years ahead.

The war between Israel and Hamas has remained a central focus for many in our community. The study indicated that while the percentage of those following the news "very closely" has declined from 76% in March 2024 to 64% in March 2025, the level of emotional impact—though slightly reduced—remains significant. The data suggests a normalization of the crisis, even as antisemitic incidents continue to rise. Our community is adapting, but the emotional toll persists, underscoring the need for ongoing support and engagement.

Perhaps the most encouraging trend, reflected in the study,  is Jewish engagement. The data shows that this is not a fleeting phenomenon: 57% of those who were "very engaged" in Jewish life before October 7 remain highly involved, and even among those who were "not very engaged" or "not at all engaged" prior to the crisis, 22% and 19%, respectively, are now participating at higher levels. 

Why are people continuing to be engaged in Jewish life? The motivations behind this heightened engagement are multifaceted. Respondents cite a desire to:

• Increase understanding of the current situation in Israel (83%)

• Deepen personal knowledge of Israel (74%)

• Equip themselves to explain Israel to others (74%)

• Feel a sense of connection with other Jewish people (59%)

• Enhance their knowledge of Judaism (56%)

• Strengthen their connection to their own Judaism (40%) 

This thirst for knowledge and connection is reflected in the ways people are engaging: 84% read news stories, 69% seek content from Jewish or Israel-related organizations, and 61% turn to knowledgeable friends. Digital platforms, podcasts, and social media continue to play a significant role, but in-person and virtual events remain vital touchpoints for learning and community building.

So, how are people connecting? Engagement is taking place across a range of settings. Jewish Community Centers, informal meet-ups, Hillel and Chabad organizations, social media groups, synagogues, and time spent with Jewish friends all serve as important venues for connection. The data also highlights the importance of personal invitations, interesting and relevant content, and seeing oneself reflected in the community as key drivers of participation.

When asked how these new engagements make them feel, respondents overwhelmingly report positive emotions: belonging, welcome, curiosity, inspiration, and inclusion. However, some also experience feelings of awkwardness, anxiety, or uncertainty—reminding us that our work to foster inclusive, welcoming spaces is ongoing.

Engagement is strong across all age groups, with notable surges among midlife adults (55-74), single adults, and young families. This diversity underscores the need for varied programming and outreach strategies tailored to different life stages.

The data is clear: the surge in Jewish life since October 7 is not a temporary response but a profound and ongoing transformation. As leaders, partners, and philanthropists, we are called to meet this moment with creativity, compassion, and commitment. We must continue to invest in educational opportunities, foster welcoming environments, and build bridges across generations and backgrounds.

Let us draw strength from our shared resilience and the enduring bonds of community. Together, we can ensure that this surge in Jewish life not only endures but flourishes, strengthening our people and our future for generations to come, As One.