February 18, 2025
The above bill requires state agencies and courts to consider the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when investigating whether an alleged act was motivated by discriminatory, antisemitic intent.
It is difficult to combat that which is not defined. Agudath Israel of America, a leading national nonprofit that advocates for and represents American Orthodox Jewry, supports Assembly Bill A.2139, the Honoring Our Pledge to Eliminate Anti-Semitism (HOPE) Act. This legislation represents a meaningful step forward in combating the scourge of antisemitism in New York State. The IHRA definition is recognized globally by agencies of the United States government and governments around the world; recommended for use by the European Council and the European Parliament; endorsed by the Secretary-General of the United Nations and the Secretary General of the Organization of American States; included in policy guides prepared by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe; and has been formally adopted by a growing number of states, cities, universities, and civil society organizations.
A post-October 7th world has witnessed a surge in antisemitism. New York, unfortunately, has been no exception. Jews on college campuses and on the streets have been harassed, abused, and assaulted, sometimes with impunity. Agudath Israel has received these reports directly from numerous constituents, and visibly Orthodox Jews are often the prime targets. Agudath Israel of America believes that the HOPE Act, along with its related provision to enhance anti-bias training, is not only a necessary measure to combat antisemitism but also a reaffirmation of New York’s commitment toward justice and human dignity.
We urge support for this common-sense legislation and its swift passage and implementation.
Click HERE to download the memo.