The US Congress has passed the Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023, also known as bill H.R. 6090, which seeks to codify a definition of antisemitism to enhance protections for American Jews under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 [1ed5be4a]. The bill received strong bipartisan support in the House of Representatives, with 320 representatives voting for it and 91 against it [1ed5be4a]. The bill is now set for a Senate vote and, if passed, will be presented to President Biden for signature [1ed5be4a].
The Antisemitism Awareness Act aims to address the rising antisemitism in the United States by providing a clear definition of antisemitism and incorporating it into the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws in educational institutions [39ce53dc] [1ed5be4a]. The bill's supporters argue that codifying a specific definition of antisemitism will enhance protections for American Jews and ensure that educational institutions have clear guidelines for investigating and addressing discrimination based on antisemitic beliefs [1ed5be4a].
Critics of the bill, however, raise concerns about its potential impact on free speech [1ed5be4a]. They argue that codifying a specific definition of antisemitism can present problems for the protection of the First Amendment Right of free speech [1ed5be4a]. Some conservatives have expressed concerns that the bill could outlaw the Bible, but it is important to note that the bill's language focuses on enforcing anti-discrimination laws and does not directly censor any religious text [39ce53dc].
The IHRA definition of antisemitism, which is adhered to by 31 nations, may be codified in the United States if the Senate and President Biden agree with the House [1ed5be4a]. The IHRA definition includes examples such as denying the Jewish people their right to self-determination and applying double standards to Israel [39ce53dc]. The bill aims to address contemporary examples of antisemitism, including conspiratorial, dehumanizing, demonizing, or stereotypical allegations about the power or objectives of the Jewish people [1ed5be4a]. Antisemitic movements have also leveraged criticism of Israel to justify their harassment of Jews and Jewish institutions [1ed5be4a].
In summary, the Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023 has been passed by the US Congress, with the aim of enhancing protections for American Jews by codifying a definition of antisemitism and incorporating it into anti-discrimination laws [1ed5be4a]. The bill now awaits a Senate vote and, if passed, will be presented to President Biden for signature [1ed5be4a].