The first gathering of BANJO members at on November 21, 2022

The Bay Area Network of Jewish Officials (BANJO) is a partnership between JCRC Bay Area and Jewish elected officials from our area. Active since 2021, BANJO was formally launched on November 21, 2022.

At the time of its official launch date, BANJO already included more than 50 Jewish elected officials from across the nine counties of the Bay Area. BANJO members gather for regular networking and professional development. The purpose of the group is to support members, strengthen relationships, develop and share best practices and policy priorities, and lead with a common Jewish voice. It will serve as a trusted resource for its members and to deepen Jewish elected engagement in Bay Area government, education, and civic spaces.

Three regional chairs have been selected: San Jose Councilmember David Cohen (South Bay), Healdsburg Councilmember Ariel Kelley (North Bay), and Walnut Creek Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Wilk (East Bay).

BANJO Regional Chairs 2025

“It has been great to be connected with Bay Area Jewish elected officials through JCRC. The BANJO network provides a powerful network that helps support us in our jobs and our communities. I have appreciated the opportunity to exchange ideas and build relationships with policy makers from across the region.”

David Cohen
Councilmember, City of San Jose

 

“During challenging times locally and abroad, having a network of Jewish elected officials to talk to and lean on is critically important. I love being able to reach out to my BANJO colleagues when I feel isolated or a lack of belonging. We often face similar challenges in our communities and this community of support has made all the difference over the past several years.”

Ariel Kelley
Councilmember, City of Healdsburg

 

“As someone who has always held my Jewish identity with pride, it was shocking to see the rising antisemitism in our country. JCRC has helped shed a light on hate speech, and provided truth where misinformation often resides. BANJO has brought Jewish elected officials together, to combat antisemitism and share insights that help us stand up for our Jewish community against hate. I will always speak out and denounce hate speech, and BANJO provides a forum to exchange ideas with best practices.”

Kevin Wilk
Mayor Pro Tem, City of Walnut Creek