U.S. Senators Tim Scott and Jacky Rosen have introduced the Antisemitism Awareness Act, aiming to guide the Department of Education in using the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism for investigating campus incidents. This legislative move seeks to provide clarity on whether such incidents cross from free speech into harassment or discrimination.
Senator Scott emphasized the importance of equipping the Department of Education with necessary tools, stating, “It’s critical the Department of Education has the tools and resources it needs to investigate antisemitism and root out this vile hatred wherever it rears its ugly head.” Senator Rosen highlighted Congress’s duty to combat rising antisemitism, particularly on campuses, saying, “I’m proud to introduce bipartisan legislation today with Senator Tim Scott to help protect Jewish students from antisemitic bigotry.”
In parallel efforts in the House, Congressmen Mike Lawler and Josh Gottheimer are advancing companion legislation. Congressman Lawler expressed concern over increasing antisemitism post-October 7th attacks by Hamas, noting that 83% of college students reported witnessing or experiencing such acts. He remarked, “This is unacceptable. No person should feel unsafe, targeted, or ostracized because of their faith.”
Congressman Gottheimer echoed these sentiments by advocating for a clear framework for identifying and addressing antisemitism: “Our bipartisan bill adopts the most widely recognized definition of antisemitism in the world.”
Stephanie Hausner from the Conference of Presidents praised the act as a timely initiative following increased campus antisemitism since October 7th. She said, “The AAA will adopt the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism into U.S. law.”
Sandra Hagee Parker from CUFI Action Fund described antisemitism as a universal issue and emphasized defining it under U.S. law as crucial for safe campuses.
Jonathan Greenblatt from ADL urged swift congressional action: “The Antisemitism Awareness Act makes clear that antisemitism…has no place in our schools or society.”
Ted Deutch from American Jewish Committee stressed clarity about what constitutes antisemitism as vital for addressing it effectively.
Karen Paikin Barall from Jewish Federations of North America supported immediate congressional action against rising antisemitic incidents.
A wide range of senators co-sponsor this legislation across party lines, underscoring its bipartisan nature.
