Overview of the Bill
The US House of Representatives recently passed a bill aimed at expanding the federal definition of antisemitism. If this bill becomes law, it would incorporate the definition of antisemitism established by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) into Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Implications of the Bill
If enacted, the bill would prohibit discrimination based on shared ancestry, ethnic characteristics, or national origin. This move could empower the Biden administration or future US presidents to withhold funding and resources from educational institutions that are perceived to tolerate antisemitism.
Potential Impact on Campus Protests
There are concerns that this legislation could be used to suppress campus demonstrations against conflicts such as the war in Gaza. With a significant number of Palestinian casualties, amounting to 34,568 lives lost, the bill’s enforcement could have far-reaching consequences on activism within university settings.
Understanding IHRA’s Definition of Antisemitism
The IHRA defines antisemitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may manifest as hatred towards Jews. Both verbal and physical acts of antisemitism are directed at individuals, their property, Jewish community institutions, and religious establishments.”
- This definition also encompasses the targeting of Israel as a Jewish collective entity.
- It explicitly prohibits drawing parallels between contemporary Israeli policies and those of the Nazis.
Background on IHRA’s Definition
The IHRA adopted this definition in 2016, and it has garnered support from the US State Department under President Joe Biden and his predecessors. This move aligns with efforts to combat antisemitism and promote tolerance in the United States.
Recent Developments
The bill’s passage coincides with widespread anti-war protests on college campuses, particularly in response to the conflict in Gaza. Amid escalating tensions, the Biden administration has reaffirmed its support for Israel while addressing humanitarian concerns arising from the military actions in the region.
