Colorado Governor Jared Polis has announced that the state will be providing $250,000 in security grants to places at higher risk of attack, such as synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship. This decision comes in the wake of a firebomb attack in Boulder on a group of people supporting Israeli hostages, which tragically resulted in the death of one of the victims, Karen Diamond.
Gov. Polis emphasized the importance of increasing safety measures in the face of rising antisemitism and hate crimes. He stated, “Sadly, as antisemitism and other forms of hate and instances of violence are on the rise, we know that our places of worship, religious schools, and other places of gathering in communities face increased risk. This additional support will help ensure that upgrades are made to increase safety.”
The new funding supplements the existing $1 million in grants provided through the Colorado Nonprofit Security Grant program, established by law in 2022. The additional funds come from an emergent needs fund set up during the COVID-19 recovery period.
Organizations with emerging security needs will be eligible to receive the new grant. The specific criteria for allocation will be developed by the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Colorado Department of Public Safety, with details to be announced soon.
The individual suspected of carrying out the firebomb attack, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, faces numerous state and federal charges, including first-degree murder and violations of federal hate crime laws.
Stay up-to-date with Colorado Politics by signing up for our weekly newsletter, The Spot.
