OU ADVOCACY CENTER ADVOCATING FOR OUR COMMUNITY IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL
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Orthodox Union OU Advocacy

Your Voice in Our Nation’s Capital

OU Advocacy (OUA) is the nonpartisan public policy arm of the Orthodox Union, representing the Orthodox community’s interests and values in our nation’s capital — from supporting Israel to combating antisemitism to securing essential funding for shuls and schools.

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A Landmark School Choice Law Passes Congress

After decades of sustained advocacy, Congress passed — and President Trump signed — the most significant federal school choice legislation in U.S. history. The new law creates a 100% federal tax credit for donations (up to $1,700) to scholarship granting organizations (SGOs), which distribute scholarships usable at private schools, including Jewish day schools and yeshivot. This breakthrough helps make Jewish education more affordable at a time when antisemitism is on the rise, and OU Advocacy will continue working to expand the program, increase contribution limits, and protect participating schools’ religious freedom.

Mission to Washington

OU Advocacy succeeds when the community engages. At this year’s spring mission, 150 Jewish lay leaders met with senior DOJ officials, heard from senators and representatives, and lobbied members of Congress on the community’s biggest issues. These meetings helped secure significant funding and reinforce ongoing support for Israel and anti‑antisemitism efforts.

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OUA lay leaders meet with Rep. Gabe Amo; Rabbi Hauer, zt”l, welcomes Sen. Josh Hawley.

At a Glance

$474.5M
secured in Nonprofit Security Grants
150
lay leaders at Mission to Washington
125
attendees at inaugural Attorneys Conference
15
fellows in first LIAT Fellowship cohort

New Programs

OU Attorneys Conference

Brought together 125 lawyers, judges, and public officials to explore legal tools for combating antisemitism.

LIAT Fellowship

Leaders In Advocacy Training empowers college students to become the next generation of Jewish policy advocates through mentorship, hands‑on training in Washington, and a capstone project.

NCSY