Rabbi of NJ: Definition of anti -Semitism will help stop this dangerous resurgence on their ways

By Rabbi Matthew Gewirtz

Hamas’ brutal terrorist attacks against Israel in 2023 opened a latent hate box of Pandora and directly drove to unprecedented levels of anti -Semitism in the United States. In its most recent annual report, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) scored a total of 8,873 anti-Semitic assault incidents, harassment and vandalism in 2023.

This represented an increase of 140 percent of 2022, and the highest level recorded since ADL began to track these data in 1979. Here in New Jersey, the ADL has documented incident after incident of anti -Semitic intimidation, harassment and violence aimed at our community.

Concerned? You are not alone. However, the New Jersey Legislature has the opportunity to stop this scourge through S1292A bill to formally adopt the labor definition of anti -Semitism of the MEMORY Alliance of the International Holocaust (IHRA). Simply defining anti -Semitism, a simple step, will contribute greatly to stop this dangerous resurgence on its path.

The definition of IHRA, used by more than 45 countries, more than 35 US states and a growing number of institutions, offers a comprehensive framework to understand how anti -Semitism manifests, both in open hate and in more modern and codified expressions, including the demonization of Israel as a proxy to attack the Jews.

Current laws, although essential to address acts of manifest hate, are not enough to combat evolutionary manifestations often subtle anti -Semitism. Legal frameworks tend to focus on prosecutable crimes, such as hate and discrimination crimes, but do not always explain the most insidious forms of anti -Semitism, including coded language, institutional bias and the delegitimization of Jewish identity.

The definition of IHRA fills this critical emptiness by providing a comprehensive guide to recognize and address rhetoric and anti -Semitic actions before they become systemic violence or discrimination. For this reason, the special envoy of the United States of the Biden era to monitor and combat anti -Semitism Deborah Lipstadt called the definition “One of the most fundamental tools we have to fight” anti -Semitism.

The opponents argue that adopting the definition of IHRA prohibits criticism from Israel. Let me be clear: it doesn’t make such a thing. This definition is not about monitoring the criticisms of Israeli government policies: in fact, a reflective debate on Israel’s actions, such as the policies of any nation, is necessary and healthy. In fact, as a Jewish leader, I offer my criticism every time I feel necessary, explicitly as part of my love for the Jewish company.

Rather, the definition of IHRA helps us distinguish between legitimate and rhetorical criticisms that deviate in anti -Semitism by holding the Jews collectively, denying Jewish people or applying double ratings that would not be imposed on any other nation. In fact, the definition of IHRA explicitly establishes that “criticism of Israel similar to what were level against any other country cannot be considered anti -Semitic.”

The opponents also claim that adopting the definition of IHRA anti -Semitism could have a chilling effect on freedom of expression, but this is also a spurious argument. Instead of silencing the speech, Ihra’s definition ensures that anti -Semitic rhetoric is recognized and approached, creating a safer environment for productive discussions.

Recognizing hate speech does not mean prohibiting it; It simply guarantees that institutions, educators and political leaders can identify and combat discrimination effectively. Just as societies define and fight racism and other prejudices without suppressing free expression, the adoption of the definition of Ihra ensures that anti -Semitism is treated with the same seriousness, without violating an open debate.

New Jersey has been proud for a long time to be a civil rights leader and social justice. With one of the largest Jewish populations in the country, our state should not be delayed in the fight against anti -Semitism. Adopting the definition of IHRA is not just a symbolic act, it is a practical tool for educators, the application of the law and political leaders to identify and fight discrimination in all its forms.

History has taught us that hate was without control the metastasis. It is our moral duty to ensure that anti -Semitism is called, confront and eradicate wherever it appears. By adopting the definition of Ihra, New Jersey would reaffirm its commitment to the dignity and security of all its citizens.

Civic leaders who support this imperative act of justice must be praised. It is now imperative that all our legislators, community leaders and fellow citizens join at this time. We act with courage and moral clarity. Let us make sure that New Jersey remains a lighthouse of justice by formally embrapping the definition of Ihra.

Rabbi Matthew Gewirtz is the oldest rabbi of the B’Nai Jeshurun ​​temple in short hills. It appears as a commentator about religion in MSNBC, CNN, ABC and NBC.

Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today for Nj.com.