Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano today met with community leaders of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) from across the nation at the White House to underscore the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) commitment to partnering with faith-based communities to prevent, prepare for and respond to threats.

“Homeland security begins with hometown security, and our nation’s faith-based organizations play a critical role in keeping our communities safe,” said Secretary Napolitano. “DHS works closely with communities all across the country so they are better prepared to deal with threats that may originate within this country or abroad.”

Last year, Secretary Napolitano announced the expansion of the “If You See Something, Say Something™” public awareness campaign to the Jewish community by partnering with the JFNA and the Secure Community Network—a mechanism for information sharing with faith- and community-based organizations designed to improve security awareness in a crisis situation.

DHS is committed to collaborating with the Jewish community at home and abroad. In May, Secretary Napolitano traveled to Israel where she met with senior Israeli officials and signed a Joint Statement on the implementation of the Global Entry trusted traveler program, which provides expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)