For Immediate Release:
April 10, 2024
NEW YORK – Today a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers in Congress introduced the Countering Antisemitism Act to address the rise in antisemitism since Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel on October 7. Among other provisions to address antisemitism on campus, ensure robust Holocaust education efforts, and address online antisemitism, the bill would establish the position of a National Coordinator to Counter Antisemitism and related interagency task force to oversee implementation of the landmark national strategy to counter antisemitism.
In response, Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), issued the following statement:
“At a moment when antisemitism is being normalized in new and dangerous ways, comprehensive implementation of the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism is more important than ever – and the Countering Antisemitism Act plays a critical role in moving it forward.
Like the national strategy, this bill fundamentally recognizes that Jewish safety is inextricably linked to the safety of other communities and the health and vibrancy of our democracy. From deadly antisemitic conspiracy theories to cynical efforts to isolate Jews from the very coalitions we need to advance inclusive societies, antisemitism is a multifaceted threat that undermines each and every American’s safety and our core democratic norms and values.
We appreciate the leadership of Sen. Jacky Rosen, Sen. James Lankford, Rep. Kathy Manning, Rep. Chris Smith, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, and Rep. Randy Weber in introducing this key bill, and we continue to appreciate the Biden administration’s ardent commitment to these efforts. JCPA will be mobilizing in the days and weeks ahead to support this legislation and the broader fight to counter hate and bigotry and protect our democracy.”
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About JCPA
The Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) is the national convener of Jewish coalitions, bringing together national and local partners to address the issues that most deeply affect our community and advance our most essential values. Our mission is to mobilize the robust community relations network in pursuit of a more just and democratic society for all, rooted in an abiding belief that Jewish security here and abroad is tied to the health of our democracy and strong relationships between communities.