New York, NY – The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations proudly welcomes the Iranian American Jewish Federation (IAJF) as its newest member, marking an important milestone in embracing the full diversity of American Jewish life.
Following a comprehensive review process, the Conference’s Membership Committee and full membership unanimously approved IAJF’s application, recognizing the organization’s longstanding impact on Iranian-American Jewish life and its vital contributions to U.S.-Israel relations.
“IAJF has long stood at the heart of Iranian Jewish life in America, and we look forward to the energy and outlook they will bring to our shared mission,” said Harriet P. Schleifer, Chair of the Conference, “We are honored to welcome the Iranian American Jewish Federation into the Conference of Presidents.
The IAJF serves as a central hub for Iranian Jews across the United States. With vibrant chapters in New York and Los Angeles and members nationwide, the organization has been a forceful advocate for community integration, and Jewish identity.
Through its philanthropic work, IAJF has raised in the last two decades more than $100 million to support over 230 organizations in Israel and the United States across sectors including healthcare, education, IDF soldier support, social services, and humanitarian aid for victims of terror.
“We are honored to join the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations,” said Shahram Yaghoubzadeh, Chair of the Board of IAJF New York. “This milestone is a testament to the strength, commitment, and enduring contributions of the Iranian-American Jewish community to Jewish life in the United States, Israel, and beyond. We look forward to contributing our voice, values, and vision to the Conference’s work during this pivotal moment.”
“IAJF represents a vibrant community, deeply rooted in its heritage and dedicated to building a dynamic Jewish future,” said Joanna Eshaghoff, President of IAJF New York. “Our admission reflects the growing leadership of Iranian-American Jews and our shared commitment to education, empowerment, and Zionist values.” “In an era when Jewish identity faces growing pressures, we must remain anchored in our traditions, education, and collective responsibility,” said Alex Shahery, President of IAJF Los Angeles. “Joining the Conference broadens our reach, deepens our impact, and allows us to contribute a unique perspective to advancing the Jewish people’s shared goals.
“The Iranian American Jewish community transformed exile and adversity into a remarkable chapter of American Jewish life. Through IAJF, they proudly preserve their heritage and champion a steadfast commitment to Israel. By joining the Conference of Presidents, they bring valuable perspective and strengthen our shared pursuit of Jewish unity and purpose in these challenging times,” said William C. Daroff, CEO of Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations.
IAJF’s inclusion reflects the Conference’s commitment to embracing the breadth of American Jewish experiences and communities. Their membership reinforces the Conference’s mission to speak with a unified voice while reflecting the rich diversity of Jewish life in North America.
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About the Iranian American Jewish Federation (IAJF)
The Iranian American Jewish Federation (IAJF) represents the interests of Iranian Jews across the United States. With major chapters in New York and Los Angeles, IAJF promotes Jewish identity, supports humanitarian causes, and strengthens the U.S.-Israel relationship through advocacy, philanthropy, and community engagement.
About the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations
The Conference of Presidents is the umbrella organization representing the broad spectrum of American Jewish organizations. It advocates for Jewish interests, combats antisemitism, and strengthens U.S.-Israel relations through coordinated action and unified leadership.
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