| This past Monday night, in a meeting facilitated by Agudath Israel of Illinois, Alderman Samantha Nugent, her Chief of Staff Adam Roberts, and key community leaders convened at Bais Yaakov High School of Chicago for a productive and wide-ranging discussion. Attending on behalf of the Jewish community were representatives from Bais Yaakov High School of Chicago, Yeshiva Eitz Chaim, and Telshe Yeshiva Chicago.
Prior to the meeting, Rabbi Berish Cardash provided Alderman Nugent with a tour of Bais Yaakov High School, offering a firsthand look at the school's programs and facilities. The Alder was very impressed with the school's environment and the dedication to education that she observed.
The discussion that followed centered on critical issues affecting Jewish education, safety and security, the rise in anti-Semitism, and broader citywide developments such as the budget, political climate, and other matters before the Chicago City Council. Community leaders also conveyed to the Alderman the vital importance of Jewish education for the continuity and growth of the Orthodox Jewish community, emphasizing that it is existential to our identity and future.
Reflecting on the meeting, Rabbi Shlomo Soroka, Director of Government Affairs for Agudath Israel of Illinois, shared, "This was an important and productive opportunity for our community leaders to engage with Alderman Nugent and discuss both challenges and opportunities facing our schools and families. Open dialogue is essential to ensure our concerns are understood and addressed."
Alderman Samantha Nugent expressed her gratitude for the ongoing collaboration with the community, saying, "I deeply value my relationship with Agudah and the Orthodox Jewish community, and appreciate their commitment to education, safety, and civic engagement. It is through these conversations that we can better understand needs and work together for meaningful solutions."
Rabbi Dovid Schnell added, "Our community and the Agudah have long enjoyed a warm, close, and productive relationship with Alderman Nugent, and we have always valued the partnership. It was heartening to see that relationship continue to develop as we discussed issues that are vital to our families and institutions. Open conversations like these reaffirm the trust and mutual respect we've built over the years."
The meeting underscored the importance of strong communication and collaboration between the Jewish community and public officials to build a safer, more supportive environment for all. | 
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