SLATER’S ANTISEMITISM BILL BLOCKED BY ASSEMBLY DEMOCRATS

Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) introduced legislation in February to establish a formal definition of “antisemitism” within the New York State Education Department. This bill was rejected yesterday by Assembly Democrats in the Education Committee. 

The bill, which would serve as a guideline for reviewing, investigating and determining whether a violation of law, regulation or Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 has occurred, was blocked from advancing through the legislative process.

The legislation would adopt the working definition of antisemitism established by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance in 2016, which has been recognized by the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. The definition states:

“Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”

“As I said when my legislation was introduced, the first step in combating hate is defining it. It appears Albany Democrats disagree,” said Slater. “It’s shameful they refuse to take a real stand against antisemitism when they have an opportunity to do so, especially given the significant rise in hate crimes across our state since October of 2023. They can denounce hate all they want when it’s convenient, but actions speak louder than words.”

“I know I speak for more than just myself in questioning the decision to hold this bill from advancing. If Albany leaders are serious about fighting antisemitism, they need to prove it, not with platitudes, but by passing this bill,” Slater concluded.