NCJW and JWI Statement on State Department Layoffs, Cutting Office of Global Women’s Issues

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, July 15, 2025

PRESS CONTACT: NCJW: press@ncjw.org | JWI: rgraber@jwi.org

WASHINGTON, DC — Last week, the US Department of State announced an unprecedented Reduction in Force (RIF), laying off over 1300 employees and reportedly shuttering or reorganizing a number of key bureaus, purportedly including the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues — a key team working to uplift women and end violence against women and girls around the world.

In response, National Council of Jewish Women CEO Sheila Katz and Jewish Women International CEO Meredith Jacobs have released the following joint statement:

“Cutting the Office of Global Women’s Issues at the State Department means turning our backs on survivors of violence against women and girls, denying girls education, and abandoning women working for freedom. This isn’t just a policy shift by this administration — it’s a betrayal of women and girls worldwide.

“Recently, this office stood up for the Israeli women brutalized by Hamas and honored survivors of those attacks, including Amit Soussana. We encourage Secretary Rubio to recommit to the Office of Global Women’s Issues’ mission and ensure its vital work continues. To the dedicated staff who have carried this sacred work forward with excellence, we thank you and will continue advocating for your work so all women and girls can live freely, safely, and with the opportunity to flourish.”

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National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a 132-year-old Jewish feminist civil rights organization working for equity and justice for women, children, and families in the United States and Israel. Through the efforts of our 250,000 grassroots advocates and 48 local sections, NCJW combines education, direct service, and advocacy to effect lasting social change at the local, state, and national levels. We approach our work through the intersections of gender, economic, and racial justice to center those most impacted in a uniquely Jewish way. Learn more at NCJW.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Jewish Women International (JWI) is the leading Jewish organization championing women and girls by fighting gender-based violence, expanding access to long-term economic security, and advancing women’s leadership. We envision a world free of violence and inequity, where all women and girls thrive. Learn more at JWI.org and connect with us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.