Senators Jacky Rosen and James Lankford have introduced bipartisan legislation, known as the Countering Antisemitism Act, aimed at strengthening federal efforts to combat antisemitism. The bill outlines the appointment of a federal coordinator to oversee domestic antisemitism strategies and the creation of an interagency task force to coordinate federal initiatives. Additionally, the legislation mandates an analysis of antisemitism online and designates a senior official within the Department of Education to advise on combating discrimination in higher education.
The Countering Antisemitism Act also includes the formal establishment of May as “Jewish American Heritage Month” in federal law. Senator Rosen emphasized the importance of this legislation in fighting anti-Jewish hatred, bigotry, and violence in the United States. Senator Lankford echoed this sentiment, stressing the right to practice one’s faith without fear of attack based on religious views. The bill is a response to the increasing discrimination faced by Jews in the United States, particularly since the Israel-Hamas war began in October.
Jewish communities in the US have experienced a rise in discrimination, including acts of violence, vandalism, and threats. Lawmakers hope that the Countering Antisemitism Act will enhance the government’s response to these incidents and provide greater protection for Jewish individuals and institutions. Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, praised the bill as the most comprehensive antisemitism initiative ever introduced in Congress. The organization is launching a campaign to garner support for the legislation’s passage and believes it offers a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to addressing antisemitism.
The legislation is a proactive measure to combat the current antisemitism crisis facing the US Jewish community, with Greenblatt describing it as a smart and innovative approach to protecting Jews and combating hatred. The Countering Antisemitism Act seeks to address the increase in antisemitic incidents and provide a comprehensive strategy for federal initiatives to counter this form of discrimination. Its establishment of a National Coordinator to Counter Antisemitism and the interagency task force demonstrates a commitment to addressing antisemitism at both the federal level and in educational institutions.
By designating May as “Jewish American Heritage Month,” the bill recognizes and celebrates the contributions and impact of Jewish Americans throughout history. The legislation’s bipartisan sponsorship and focus on combatting discrimination demonstrate a united effort to address the rise in antisemitism and protect the rights of individuals to practice their faith without fear of attack or harassment. As the US Jewish community faces an unprecedented crisis of antisemitism, the Countering Antisemitism Act offers a comprehensive and strategic approach to combating hatred and ensuring the safety of Jewish individuals across the country.
