West Hudson Valley News

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) on June 21, 2023 introduced a bipartisan measure to combat the escalating issue of violence against Jewish Americans. Rep. Molinaro introduced this measure due to the rise of antisemitic violence, ranging from harassment to assault and vandalism, and following a recent CUNY Law School graduation, in which a graduate delivered an anti-Israel commencement speech. Rep. Molinaro introduced the bipartisan measure alongside U.S. Reps. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23) Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1).   

In 2022 alone, over 3,500 antisemitic incidents were reported in the United States. This issue has been compounded by the proliferation of antisemitic rhetoric on mainstream social media, leading more young people to be exposed to antisemitic ideas, and in dozens of cases, inspiring preparators to carry out acts of antisemitic violence.

Rep. Molinaro’s measure raises awareness of troubling antisemitic incidents and calls on Congress to formally condemn the uptick in violence. The resolution also calls for an advancement of accurate and accessible Holocaust education to ensure the lessons of this tragedy are never forgotten.

Rep. Molinaro said, "We cannot turn a blind eye to the surge in antisemitic violence targeting Jewish Americans. It is our solemn duty to stand in unwavering solidarity with those affected by antisemitism and take decisive action to combat this disturbing trend. Hate can only be rooted out by bringing in light. By clearly calling out antisemitism and advancing Holocaust education, we can prevent violence and send a resolute message it has no place in our society.”

Julie Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs, American Jewish Committee said, "As the United States continues to experience a surge in antisemitic attacks, it is more important than ever that Congress show unequivocal, bipartisan condemnation of violence toward the Jewish community. American Jewish Committee’s (AJC) 2022 State of Antisemitism in America report found that of Jews in the United States, 41 percent said the status of Jews in the United States is less secure than a year ago and that 4 in 10 have changed their behavior in at least one way out of fear of antisemitism. AJC appreciates Representatives Molinaro, Moskowitz, Schneider, and Fitzpatrick for helping raise awareness of antisemitism, encouraging leaders across the country to speak out, and advancing Holocaust education.”

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League said, “As antisemitic attitudes are rising and anti-Jewish incidents across the U.S. remain at historic levels, it's critical for leaders to come together on a bipartisan basis to continue to condemn this hate in all its manifestations. Elected officials, faith leaders, and civil society leaders must speak out and push back against antisemitic harassment and violence. Thank you to Reps. Molinaro, Moskowitz, Schneider and Fitzpatrick for leading this bipartisan resolution, which demonstrates Congress’s continued commitment to combating this age-old hatred.” 

Original source can be found here.