An influential US lawmaker, Democratic Congressman Josh Gottheimer, has emphasized the need to enhance security funding for various religious institutions, including those of Hindus, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and recent attacks that have heightened concerns within faith communities nationwide.
Gottheimer recently organized a meeting in New Jersey, bringing together homeland security officials, including Director Thomas Hauck and Director of Preparedness Charles Ambio from the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness (NJOHSP), along with leaders representing Jewish, Christian, Hindu, and other religious groups. The gathering aimed to address the growing threat landscape faced by houses of worship and explore ways to enhance preparedness and response strategies.
Highlighting the current global scenario, Gottheimer stressed the importance of remaining vigilant against threats, particularly targeting faith communities, given the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the conflict involving Iran. The discussion also delved into the impact of Middle East conflicts on domestic security concerns, underscoring the need for local institutions to bolster their security measures in response to these evolving challenges.
Recent incidents, such as an attack on a synagogue in Michigan and a shooting outside a synagogue in Teaneck, served as stark reminders of the prevalence of antisemitism and hate crimes. Gottheimer emphasized that the risks posed by such threats transcend religious boundaries, emphasizing the collective responsibility to ensure the safety of individuals entering any place of worship across the nation.
A key focus of the meeting was the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Programme (NSGP), which offers funding for security enhancements like surveillance systems, access controls, and trained personnel. Gottheimer called for immediate action to expand the program, advocating for an increase in NSGP funding to $1 billion by fiscal year 2027.
