Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) applauded the House passage of his Antisemitism Awareness Act by the U.S. House of Representatives. In a statement, Senator Scott emphasized the importance of combating antisemitism on college campuses, stating, “violently antisemitic rhetoric has no place on college campuses. Antisemitism has spread like wildfire on college campuses and now more than ever, it is crucial that we stamp it out.”

Congressman Lawler echoed Senator Scott's sentiments, highlighting the necessity of the Antisemitism Awareness Act in addressing the alarming rise of antisemitic incidents on campuses. He emphasized the need for the Department of Education to adopt the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism and its contemporary examples, stating that the Act "gives teeth to federal anti-discrimination laws to go after those who attack their Jewish peers."

The Antisemitism Awareness Act was introduced by Senator Scott and U.S. Representative Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) in response to the October 7th Hamas terror attacks on Israel and the subsequent increase in antisemitic incidents on college campuses. The Act directs the Department of Education to use the IHRA definition of antisemitism when investigating such acts, aiming to provide a clear framework for identifying and addressing antisemitism.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, there was a 488% increase in violent language and threats against the Jewish community and Israel in the first 18 hours following the Hamas terror attacks on October 7, 2023. This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of taking concrete actions to combat antisemitism and ensure the safety of Jewish students.

Senator Scott urged Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to bring the Antisemitism Awareness Act to a vote, emphasizing the Senate's responsibility to stand against hatred and create a safe environment for Jewish individuals. He stated, “The Senate has a responsibility to stand against hatred so our Jewish brothers and sisters can live without fear.”

The bipartisan support for and passage of the Antisemitism Awareness Act reflect a united effort to address the scourge of antisemitism and protect the rights and safety of Jewish individuals on college campuses.