SAN DIEGO.- Councilmember Marni von Wilpert and Councilmember Raul Campillo intensified their call to secure funding aimed at protecting community organizations and places of worship following the recent shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego.
During a press conference, both officials provided updates on efforts to obtain funding through the FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program and California’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program.
Von Wilpert warned that the attack that occurred on Monday, May 18, “did not happen in a vacuum.”
“Hate-motivated attacks against places of worship have been increasing and, unfortunately, have become far too familiar in this country,” Councilmember Marni von Wilpert said.
The councilmember recalled that since January, alongside Campillo and through the Public Safety Committee, they have pushed initiatives to address the rise in hate crimes targeting religious communities and civic organizations.
Newsom proposes $40 million
The councilmembers sent a letter to Governor Gavin Newsom requesting the reopening and strengthening of California’s nonprofit security grant program. According to the officials, the governor responded by including $40 million in the state’s May budget revision.
“This is not simply a budget item; it is a lifeline,” Von Wilpert stated. “Now we need Sacramento to deliver this crucial funding.”
The councilmember explained that the resources would help fund security cameras, protective fencing, surveillance systems, and security personnel for nonprofit organizations, schools, and religious institutions facing threats linked to extremism and hate crimes.
Rise in Islamophobia
During her remarks, Von Wilpert denounced an increase in Islamophobia and hate speech targeting the Muslim community.
“The rise in Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hate is being fueled by toxic rhetoric online and by political discourse that has singled out these communities,” the councilmember said.
She added that religious organizations “are on the front lines of hate-motivated violence” and should not have to shoulder the financial burden of protecting themselves alone.
Criticism of federal cuts
The press conference also included criticism of the administration of President Donald Trump after funding was eliminated from a similar federal security grant program.
Von Wilpert questioned federal budget priorities.
“The Trump administration found money to remodel the White House and build a ballroom, but did not find funding to strengthen security for places of worship in this country.”
The councilmember insisted that the safety of religious communities “must not become a partisan debate,” but rather a national priority.
In lawmakers’ hands
Currently, the $40 million budget proposal is under discussion in the California State Legislature. Von Wilpert and Campillo urged residents to contact their state representatives to support the continuation of the program.
“This is an issue on which we must all raise our voices,” Councilmember Marni von Wilpert concluded.