A Call to Action Against Antisemitism in America

In the last decade, violence against the Jewish community in America has become more common and more widespread. Jews have been killed in their synagogues, Kosher grocery stores, and their homes. Antisemitic attitudes, stereotypes, and conspiracies have become more “normalized” and deeply entrenched in our society.

Jewish businesses have been defaced, Jewish college students have been attacked and harassed, and anti-Jewish vitriol has spread rapidly online. Jews and Jewish institutions have been targeted during Jewish holidays and, most recently, in the weeks following the Hamas terrorist attack in Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed over 1,200 Israeli civilians and marked the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust, antisemitism spiked almost 400% in the United States. 

What the American Jewish community is currently experiencing has been ongoing. In January 2022, in Colleyville, Texas, four American Jews were held hostage in a synagogue for 11 hours by a gunman deluded by conspiracies of Jewish power. In October and November 2022, rapper Kanye (Ye) West shared antisemitic vitriol to millions of his followers which number more than three times the Jewish population in the world. In July 2021, in Boston, Massachusetts, an Islamist extremist, fueled by hatred of Jews, stabbed a rabbi multiple times outside a Jewish school. In 2019, motivated by radically different ideologies, murderers targeted Jews at a Chabad synagogue in Poway, California, a kosher supermarket in Jersey City, New Jersey, and a Hanukkah party in Monsey, New York. And in October 2018, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a white supremacist murdered 11 Jews at the Tree of Life Synagogue in the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history.

The numbers don’t lie: AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report revealed that 93% of Jewish respondents believe antisemitism is a problem in the U.S. The majority also feel less safe. 78% of American Jews who heard something about the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel said the attacks made them feel less safe as a Jewish person in the U.S. More than 6 in 10 American Jews (63%) say the status of Jews in the United States is less secure than a year ago. This percentage has doubled in two years! Almost half (46%) of American Jews changed their behavior in at least one way out of fear of antisemitism. When societies cannot protect their Jewish populations, they often fail to protect their democracy as well. 

Antisemitism is not just a problem for the Jewish community to address. According to AJC’s Report, over 9 in ten Americans, Jewish and non-Jewish, believe antisemitism is a problem that affects society as a whole; everyone is responsible for combating it. What follows is a Call to Action Against Antisemitism in America that provides leaders in all sectors of society with the knowledge and tools to understand, respond to, and prevent antisemitism.

This Call to Action Against Antisemitism in America also includes recommendations from the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, published by the White House in May 2023, which contained dozens of recommendations from American Jewish Committee (AJC). Many of the actions listed in this nonpartisan strategy must continue and are preserved here. And finally, because rising antisemitism is also a global threat, AJC, as the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people, issued a Global Call to Action Against Antisemitism, signed by 47 Jewish communities from around the world to mobilize and empower leaders to take bold action to counter antisemitism.

THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

To counter antisemitism, one must understand it. AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report revealed that almost one-third (30%) of Americans are not even familiar with what antisemitism is. First, to understand the hatred of Jews, one needs to know who Jews are.

Who are Jews? Jews account for 0.2% of the world’s population—only 15.7 million people. The largest Jewish community in the world is in Israel, with over 7 million Jews. In the United States, there are 6.3 million Jews, accounting for only 2.4% of the population. Jews are more than a religious group: They reflect diverse ethnic, racial, and national characteristics while exhibiting a strong sense of group identity. Jews have continuously lived in the land of Israel since Biblical times, and today half of the world’s Jewish population are citizens of the State of Israel. Jews span the full political and socio-economic spectrum. The Jewish people include Ashkenazi Jews descended from Eastern Europe, Black Jews from Ethiopia, Brown Jews from India, and Mizrahi and Sephardi Jews from North Africa, the Middle East, Turkey, and Iran. Jews by choice (those who convert to Judaism) add to this diversity. Given this diversity, characterizing Jews as only “white” and “privileged” ignores history and present reality.

What is antisemitism? For governments, law enforcement agencies, and others who have a practical need to identify and respond to antisemitism, the best tool is the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, which defines antisemitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews.” It also includes practical examples to determine whether something is antisemitic, such as discrimination and hatred of Jews, conspiracy theories, Holocaust denial and distortion, and antisemitism related to Israel. Internationally recognized as the authoritative definition, the IHRA Working Definition has been adopted by more than 1,000 bodies, including more than 40 countries and multilateral organizations such as the European Union and the Organization of American States. It informs the U.S. State Department’s work on global antisemitism and guides the U.S. Department of Education efforts to address antisemitism on college campuses. Scores of universities, sports teams and leagues, states, and local governments have formally adopted it. 

Where does antisemitism come from? Antisemitism is often described as the world’s oldest hatred. The historical foundation of antisemitism is Christian anti-Judaism, in which Jews were accused of killing Jesus Christ (deicide charge), kidnapping and murdering Christian children to use their blood in rituals (blood libel), and spreading the Black Plague through common drinking wells (“poisoning the well”). As European Jews were emancipated in the 19th and 20th centuries, they continued to be blamed for “why things went wrong.” Nefarious publications such as the fictitious Protocols of the Elders of Zion, centered on invented conspiracies of Jewish power, wealth, and plots to control governments and economies. The myth of Jewish control also featured heavily in Nazi propaganda, which viewed Jews as racially impure and the cause of society’s ills. In modern times, antisemitism against the Jewish collective continues to manifest as hatred against the Jewish state, Israel, or when Israel is viewed as the source of evil in the world, in the same ways antisemites viewed Jews historically. 

The sustained antisemitism American Jewish communities have experienced over the past several years, while part of a global rise, has distinctive American elements and must be addressed within an American historical context. In the United States, while antisemitic episodes can be traced back to the arrival of Jews in America in the 17th and 18th centuries, with a particular spike following increased Jewish immigration during the turn of the 20th century, contemporary antisemitism in the U.S. looks different.1 Today, there are many sources making it difficult to pinpoint: antisemitism stems from the far-right, including white supremacy, white nationalism, and neo-Nazi antisemitism; the far-left, arising from identity-based politics or anti-Israel antisemitism, including denying Israel’s right to exist; religious extremism, including Islamist extremism and factions of some religious sects such as Black Hebrew Israelites and Nation of Islam; and from segments of minority communities, whether as a form of scapegoating or seeing Jews as an outgroup or a competitive threat, including competition of victimhood. AJC’s Translate Hate glossary includes tropes and phrases that are reused and recycled, often unknowingly. More information on the origins of antisemitism is available here. 

Is criticism of Israel antisemitic? Political protest is an essential part of democracy, and criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country is legitimate. However, it is antisemitic to target or attack Jews and Jewish institutions as a response to Israeli policies or actions. Across the globe, particularly since Hamas’ attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, antisemitic incidents are occurring at an alarmingly high frequency and with a broad geographic reach. Anti-Jewish hate has surged roughly 400% in the U.S. since October 7, on top of already heightened figures. These examples—which occurred amidst and after Hamas’ horrific terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent war—show when anti-Israel statements and actions are antisemitic.2

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

First and foremost, we all bear the responsibility to decry antisemitism. When everyone uses their voices to push antisemitism and those who espouse it to the fringes of society, America becomes a safer place not only for Jews, but for all.

Antisemitism is not only a threat to Jews but it is a challenge to our core, democratic values. That is why it is so important for those in a position of power or influence to quickly and clearly condemn any manifestation of antisemitism regardless of its origin and without bias. Strong statements of condemnation should come immediately and should: 

• Specifically name and condemn antisemitism when it occurs, even in the larger context of free speech. 
• Offer pathways forward, including resources for victims, that can help the community heal while also proactively addressing antisemitism by generating an improved understanding of Jewish history, identity, and heritage. 
• Define antisemitism. Dozens of cities and municipalities across the country —as well as corporations, sports leagues, and universities— have embraced the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, to help determine when incidents may be deemed antisemitism.

Responding to the complex nature of antisemitism requires a multi-pronged approach. Below is a top-line summary of the recommendations that are elaborated upon in linked sections.

• Government leaders at the federal, state, and local levels must speak out, convene cross-society coalitions to demonstrate solidarity, and craft laws that ensure the safety of Jews. 
• Congress should adopt legislation to enhance Jewish community security, improve hate crimes reporting, and raise awareness of antisemitism. 
• Law enforcement should work with the Jewish community when antisemitic crimes occur, increase security to Jewish institutions, and accurately record and report antisemitic hate crimes.
• Social Media, Gaming, and AI have the responsibility to remove antisemitic content.
• Media companies and journalists must accurately report on antisemitic incidents and should strive to accurately portray Jews. 
• Agencies, companies, organizations, and other institutions should have transparent processes and procedures in place to report antisemitism to ensure efficient and effective responses and to ensure a safe environment for everyone, including Jews.
• DEI (Diversity Equity Inclusion) initiatives should include information about Jewish diversity, Jewish inclusion, and antisemitism.
• Partners and allies from religious, ethnic, and racial communities across the ideological spectrum should speak out in solidarity with the Jewish community and raise awareness about antisemitism within their own communities.
• Educational institutions have the responsibility to protect students, staff, and faculty from antisemitism, harassment, and hostile campus environment that are the results of real or perceived Jewish and/or pro-Israel identities.
• Influencers, celebrities, and athletes can use their wide-reaching platforms to shape awareness by giving voice and context to the issue of antisemitism.
• While Jews should not bear the responsibility of countering antisemitism alone – just as Blacks should not bear the burden of solving racism while they struggle against it, Jewish communities have a key role to play, from reporting antisemitism, including anti-Jewish hate crimes, to engaging with elected officials, law enforcement, and coalition partners to help ensure a whole-of-society approach to tackling the problem.

Finally, everyone should report anti-Jewish incidents, whether to the FBI or local law enforcement, federal agencies, or social media platforms. In 2023, 39% of U.S. adults witnessed antisemitism in the past year. The vast majority (68%) saw or heard this content online or on social media.

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM 

Understanding and responding to antisemitism is necessary, but the ultimate goal must be to prevent it.

The following themes outline, in broad strokes, actions to help prevent antisemitism: 

1. Engage with the Jewish community | 37% of Americans do not know someone Jewish. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Americans who say they know someone Jewish are significantly more likely to view antisemitism as a problem, with 79% of U.S. adults who know someone who is Jewish saying so, compared with 64% of those who do not know anyone who is Jewish. If you live in an area that has a Jewish community, engaging with members of that community is a simple step that can be monumentally important not just for the Jewish community, but one that can then create inclusive, more secure, and resilient environments for all. 
2. Be prepared | A heightened awareness of the situations and times when antisemitism increases enables proactive planning to combat it. Antisemitism often rises during election cycles, around Jewish holidays, and during flare-ups in the Middle East. AJC's State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report revealed that 78% of American Jews who heard something about the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7th, 2023, said the attacks made them feel less safe as a Jewish person in the United States. Community leaders, allies, and law enforcement should be on alert during these times and provide support to the Jewish community, as needed. 
3. Increase security and promote resilience | As long as Jewish communities are threatened by antisemitic violence, their security needs must be addressed. Increasing security is best accomplished hand-in-hand with bolstering Jewish community resilience, meaning that the Jewish community anticipates and responds to incidents, but more importantly withstands them and adapts. This approach will ensure the Jewish community not only survives, but thrives. It is about stability and structure as opposed to a continuous battle.
4. Promote awareness and training | The importance of education in prevention cannot be overstated. Trainings—on Jews, the Holocaust, and antisemitism—provide an opportunity not only to show solidarity but to gain knowledge and tools to identify and respond to antisemitism. Programs to address racism and intolerance provide an important framework, but they may downplay or ignore the problem of antisemitism. Because of its complexity, antisemitism should be addressed as a unique form of hatred. Finally, as misinformation spreads online and off, media literacy is increasingly important.
5. Establish policies and create the right structures | Government, educational institutions, companies, and civil society can all craft policies and/or establish official structures such as committees or task forces to prevent and address antisemitic hate, prejudice, and conspiratorial thinking. 
6. Ensure consequences | Government, educational institutions, companies, and civil society must also ensure there are consequences for antisemitism. If those who cause an unsafe environment for Jews are not reprimanded for their behavior, the antisemitism will continue unabated. It is important to remember that even if the intent of an action is not antisemitic, the effect often is. When considering consequences, focus on the impact on Jews (isolation, discrimination, exclusion, threats of danger, etc.). AJC's State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report can offer a national sense of the impact of antisemitism on American Jews; for example, 46% of American Jews avoided at least one behavior in the past 12 months out of fear of antisemitism. 

We are all responsible for countering antisemitism.

The White House and Executive Branch agencies play an unparalleled role in promoting national cohesion around important issues and charting long-term, sustained engagement.

As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the horrific attacks on October 7, 2023 – and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel – federal agencies bear the responsibility and the resources to better understand antisemitism, respond and raise awareness, and most importantly, prevent it. Many agencies have specific policy prescriptions that can serve as guides for action moving forward. Every federal agency has a role to play.

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Countering antisemitism begins with understanding it. The Executive Branch can increase understanding by taking the following actions: 

Employ Executive Order 13899 | The White House can raise awareness by continuing to employ Executive Order 13899 on Combating Anti-Semitism. Importantly, Executive Order 13899, which was based on the bipartisan Anti-Semitism Awareness Act (S. 852), encourages federal agencies to use the non-legally binding International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism. The White House can also encourage states and localities to adopt and utilize this useful educational tool. The IHRA Working Definition, which can be used to identify evidence of antisemitic discrimination, is paramount because, according to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 30% of Americans are not familiar with antisemitism, including 10% of Americans who have never heard the term before. The Working Definition can provide all federal agencies a common understanding of antisemitism to improve cooperation and effectiveness: 

• Department of State | During this time of rising global antisemitism, it is critical that governments around the world have the same understanding of what antisemitism can look like. More than 40 countries, the European Union (EU), the Organization of American States, and the U.S. Department of State, and U.S. Department of Education have endorsed the IHRA Working Definition. The White House’s continued recognition of the Working Definition’s utility will send a signal to our allies that the U.S. takes antisemitism seriously and continues to be a leader on this issue. The Secretary of State, along with the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, should increase efforts to promote the IHRA Working Definition. 
• Department of Education | Since 2018, the Department of Education has indicated repeatedly that the IHRA Working Definition would help guide its understanding of antisemitism when enforcing Title VI. Now, as the Department investigates more than 40 – and climbing – potential violations of Title VI on schools across the country, the Working Definition can be extremely useful, particularly with regard to antisemitism related to Israel. This particular type of antisemitism has rocked numerous campuses across the United States, not only targeting Jewish students but preventing an environment conducive to learning for all.
• Department of Justice | The Department of Justice, including the FBI, can utilize the IHRA Working Definition to ensure consistency in understanding antisemitic hate crimes and in law enforcement training programs. The Working Definition can inform law enforcement agencies at all levels as they respond to, investigate, and report on antisemitic hate crimes and acts of domestic terror.

Collect data to understand the problem | Federal agencies should fund and conduct large-scale surveys of American Jews and the general public to ascertain Jewish experiences with antisemitism and root causes. This information can inform and improve everything from security to educational programs. The Department of Education, through the Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC), should continue to conduct surveys in public primary and secondary schools to gather data on anti-Jewish incidents, including reported allegations of harassment or bullying. The Office of Science and Technology, including the work of the Chief Data Scientist, can also conduct research to better understand the intersection of bias, hatred, and antisemitism and technology. 

Conduct trainings and educational sessions | Federal agencies should offer training programs that include information about bias and discrimination related to religion, national origin, race, and ethnicity, including understanding antisemitism and related forms of discrimination. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) should hold these sessions for agency diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) officers. These sessions should also include workplace religious accommodations as agencies carry out their obligations under Executive Order 14035 (Executive Order on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce). All of these educational sessions can include information on Judaism, Jewish culture and identity, Jewish diversity, and the history of antisemitism, including the Holocaust. AJC’s Translate Hate visual glossary helps identify antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight, and is a meaningful addition to training programs.

Remind entities receiving federal funds of legal obligations | Federal agencies that have a duty to investigate violations of U.S. law, such as the Department of Education, can help schools, institutions, and community organizations better understand the 1964 Civil Rights Act and relevant Titles. Educational institutions receiving federal funds, for instance, need to be aware of the consequences for failing to protect Jewish students, a title VI violation. Agencies can also take steps to offer assistance to individuals and organizations on how to make claims when these laws are violated. 

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Issue unequivocal condemnations | The Administration should speak out clearly and forcefully against antisemitism and those who peddle it. There is no higher profile platform than the White House for pushing back against, rejecting, and re-stigmatizing antisemitism. The President and other federal leaders should respond to prominent antisemitic acts and voices and use every appropriate opportunity to reaffirm the Administration’s profound commitment to countering antisemitism. 

Prevent physical attacks and counter domestic terrorism | In the aftermath of the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023 we have seen too many examples of law enforcement seeming to wait for violence to break out during a protest before intervening. The Civil Rights Division at the Department of Justice (DOJ) should proactively provide guidance to local law enforcement agencies about the line between anti-Zionism and antisemitism, to allow for freedom of speech but also ensure prevention of violent antisemitism. Physical attacks against Jews are often perpetrated by white supremacist extremist groups and homegrown violent extremists. A federal plan to address the propagation of extremist ideologies in public institutions, such as prisons and law enforcement units, is recommended as well as the reestablishment of interagency initiatives between federal and state agencies to address domestic terrorism. 

DHS and the FBI should also update and continue to distribute its Protecting Places of Worship: Six Steps to Enhance Security Against Targeted Violence resource. DHS, the FBI, and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) should include enhancements on antisemitic violent extremism to their First Responder Toolbox. Federal agencies must also critically focus on cybersecurity. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) at DHS should expand outreach to Jewish communities to help them prevent cybersecurity attacks, in addition to active shooter and bomb prevention-related training. 

Mitigate online threats | The White House should back legislative efforts to reform Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act to hold social media companies liable for content on their platforms. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle and some platforms are calling for such reform. For clarity and consistency, we must ensure one solution, not 50 individual state solutions, sufficiently addresses the problem. Additionally, the U.S. government can designate transnational white supremacists and other extremist groups as terrorist organizations. Doing so mandates that social media companies remove their content and severely limit white supremacists’ ability to recruit online. Relatedly, the White House has taken the lead on convening task forces and/or hosting summits on critical issues. We recommend a federal government-wide summit on antisemitism in all its forms, including best practices on addressing antisemitism in the digital realm, from social media to gaming to generative AI. 

Improve reporting of antisemitic hate crimes | The White House should call on state and local governments to rectify endemic underreporting of hate crimes to the FBI. Inaccurate, incomplete, and simply absent hate crime data has stymied efforts to formulate effective responses. More than 50 cities with populations greater than 100,000 — reported zero or did not report hate crimes to the National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) in 2022, according to the FBI. Local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies voluntarily submit hate crimes data to the FBI, per the 1990 Hate Crimes Statistics Act. Yet the majority of Americans think it is important for law enforcement to have to report hate crimes data. 93% percent of American Jews and 91% of U.S. adults agree it is very or somewhat important for law enforcement to have to report hate crimes to a federal government database. The Department of Justice should work to increase public awareness of hate crimes and hate crime reporting, including by promoting the hate crimes website, to close the vast gaps in reporting. 

In addition, as listed in the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, with the Domestic Policy Council and National Security Council, should launch an interagency effort to understand and eliminate the impediments to reporting hate incidents. This initiative would build on existing efforts to improve criminal justice data reporting and focus on the broader mechanisms that individuals use to communicate hate incidents and social marginalization. Developing a deeper understanding of the social, behavioral, and structural barriers to identifying hate incidents will empower the U.S. government to more accurately capture the frequency and scope of hate incidents and reduce these experiences through evidence-based policies and programs. The Small Business Administration (SBA) should also encourage small businesses to report incidents of antisemitism and other incidents of hate at their businesses to the proper authorities, including local law enforcement and community organizations. 

Build trust with community-based groups | Within the Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney Offices (DOJ), FBI Field Offices, DOJ Community Relations Service members and others should undertake targeted engagement with community-based groups including youth, faith leaders, cultural leaders, and civil rights organizers from Jewish communities and other communities victimized by hate crimes. This engagement will build trust, open dialogue, help reduce the fear and isolation that can arise from hate crimes, promote a common understanding of each community’s security situation and concerns, and enable the sharing of threat information, as appropriate. The White House can update and promote its Toolkit for Faith Communities, which focuses specifically on building relationships across faith communities and responding to hate, discrimination, and bias. Building trust can help ensure victims report hate crimes and faith-based institutions apply for funding opportunities to secure vulnerable community-based institutions (such as FEMA’s nonprofit security grants) or to counter, prosecute, and report hate crimes (such as DOJ’s Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program and the Jabara-Heyer NO HATE act grants).

Engage with the Jewish community | When an antisemitic incident occurs, reach out to Jewish community leaders. Holding regular meetings with Jewish communal representatives to learn about priorities and concerns, and to offer transparency about how federal agencies are responding and taking action, is a way for the White House to model how the government at all levels can generate goodwill and facilitate vital information sharing.

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Revise and continue the implementation of a national action plan | In May 2023, the White House published the United States’ first National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism. While the duration of this plan was one year, the White House and the dozens of federal agencies involved can continue to implement their actions to help lower levels of antisemitism in the U.S. The Administration should also support state-level action plans, aligned with national recommendations.

Appoint a National Coordinator to lead interagency coordination | In the United States, while we have a Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism in the U.S. Department of State, his/her focus is external. We do not have a point person within the U.S. government solely focused on combating antisemitism domestically. While the idea of a “domestic antisemitism czar” has pros and cons in our increasingly politicized environment, there is a need to streamline the federal agencies’ responses and responsibilities to combat antisemitism within the United States. The Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Education, Department of State, and several other agencies have different mandates and initiatives to combat antisemitism. To deploy each agency’s resources most effectively, we recommend the White House appoint an official at the federal level to lead interagency coordination and build infrastructure around combating antisemitism, including leading and maintaining the process of sharing federal government efforts with each other and with the Jewish community.

Ensure perpetuity for an Interagency Task Force to Counter Antisemitism | A standing interagency task force or interagency group, which should include representatives from the relevant agencies, is imperative to check in on plan implementation, make adjustments as necessary, and share information about progress across agencies. This task force can follow the important process of regularly bringing different agencies together set up by the Interagency Policy Committee (IPC), which should continue to meet on a regular basis. The task force can also meet with governments around the world who are currently implementing their own national strategies to counter antisemitism to share best practices and lessons learned. For example, more than a dozen EU countries have their own plans and meeting with one’s transatlantic government counterpart can increase cooperation to fight this global challenge. 

Track successes and evaluate | The national coordinator and interagency task force should measure the effectiveness of actions in the plan and readjust if necessary. The plan should be flexible to account for internal and external factors, as antisemitism morphs and changes. We also call on the White House to follow the EU model of collecting input on plan implementation. The European Commission opened a Call for Evidence to assess the progress made by the Member States in implementing the EU’s Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life. The input collected by the European Commission will inform a progress report. A similar model could be adopted in the United States.

Share information with state and local partners | Federal law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the FBI, and the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC), should increase information-sharing between federal, state, Tribal, campus, school, and local government entities. They should also regularly engage with tech and social media companies to share threats of violence, as well as share additional educational materials on terrorism, radicalization, and violence, including antisemitic violence. 

Offer targeted engagement programs focused on prevention | Federal agencies can work to strengthen community-based violence prevention efforts and expand trainings with state and local partners to prevent violence motivated by hateful ideologies. For example, DHS’s Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention grant program and the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) Regional Prevention Coordinator program can work with Jewish communities to address concerns, build trust, and ensure accessibility. The Community Relations Service of the Department of Justice should launch antisemitism trainings, created in partnership with Jewish communal leaders, for prevention and awareness raising in hot spots around the country. Other agencies, like the Small Business Administration (SBA) can connect small business owners with organizations providing trainings on how to prevent and respond to incidents of antisemitism in the workplace. 

Ensure consequences for violations | Future antisemitism will be prevented if there are consequences for antisemitic behavior in the present. Federal agencies should prosecute antisemitic crimes to the fullest extent of the law. Complaints of antisemitism should also be addressed in a timely manner. For example, the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) in the Department of Education should address antisemitism complaints in schools quickly, and increase the number of Title VI investigators in order to do so. AJC has long called for increased congressional funding to bolster OCR’s capacity.

Educate to prevent | Federal agencies should ensure they are appropriately acknowledging key dates, including International Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) and Jewish American Heritage Month (May). Commemorating the Holocaust on January 27th should also focus on contemporary forms of antisemitism, including Holocaust denial and distortion. Celebrating Jewish heritage, Jewish life, and Jewish contribution to American society in May is vital to educate about who Jews as a people. Federal agencies that have online calendars recognizing heritage and history months should include Jewish American Heritage Month on their websites.

Ensure access to kosher foods | While not guaranteeing access to kosher food is not antisemitic, when kosher food is available, Jews feel welcome and a part of that community. For American Jews who keep kosher, 10% report kosher food is not too or not at all accessible where they live. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) should expand outreach and technical assistance for kosher meat processors and the number of kosher certified foods in their food procurement. Further, FEMA should work to enhance efforts to accommodate religious dietary needs when delivering aid when natural disasters strike.

Bring best practices to the U.S. | The Department of State, and specifically the Office of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism (SEAS), should share lessons and best practices from abroad to counter antisemitism. The SEAS office can continue to publicize and update their Report on Policies, Programs, and Actions Across the Globe to Combat Antisemitism. The Department of Treasury can work with the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism to prevent transnational hate groups from crowdsourcing funding and share best practices with foreign partners facing these same issues. Particularly since October 7, 2023 as numerous countries have seen exponential surges in anti-Jewish hate – particularly evident on college campuses – the Department of Education should engage with a global cohort of educators and administrators to find common solutions to the transnational issue of antisemitism in educational institutions.

Ensure a whole-of-government response | In all, an approach that integrates the collaborative efforts of all facets of the government will help achieve unity of effort towards addressing antisemitism. White House efforts should involve Congress and include a funding mechanism to meet security, educational, and training needs.

As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the events of October 7, 2023, and as repercussions of the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel reverberate across the globe, elected officials are increasingly on the front line of countering antisemitism, protecting Jewish communities, and speaking out in support of American values. Congress can leverage resources to enhance Jewish security, establish structures to prevent and address hate, and confront the politicization of antisemitism. 

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Increase awareness | Members of Congress, individually and in bipartisan groups, should speak out about countering antisemitism. Members of Congress are particularly well-positioned to share important resources to educate their constituents.

• Host trainings to address antisemitism: Members of Congress should lead by example, starting with their own offices. AJC is partnering with congressional delegations around the country to hold bipartisan trainings to help Members and staff understand the roots of antisemitism, when anti-Israel actions become antisemitic, and how rhetoric can escalate to violence.
• Coordinate town hall events for constituents: Members of Congress should consider town hall events as an opportunity not only to better understand antisemitism in their districts, but to also deepen relationships with local stakeholders and create a trusted space to discuss rising antisemitism and hate in our communities and online.
• Share AJC’s Translate Hate glossary: This resource helps identify and expose antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols. Elected officials should use and share Translate Hate with educators and constituents.

Promote a standard definition | Congress has passed several bills promoting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, including the Combating European Antisemitism Act, signed into law in 2019. While more than 40 countries, the European Union, the Organization of American States, and the U.S. Department of State and U.S. Department of Education have endorsed the IHRA Working Definition, Congress can continue to urge foreign nations, multilateral institutions, the U.S. government, states, and localities to use this proven tool. 

Ensure clarity around when anti-Israel actions become antisemitic | Political protests are an essential part of our democracy, and criticism of Israel similar to that leveled against any other country is perfectly acceptable. But when Jews are targeted and attacked and Jewish institutions are vandalized because of Israeli policies and actions, it is unacceptable. It is antisemitism. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 78% of American Jews feel less safe in the United States as a result of Hamas’ October 7th terrorist attacks in Israel. It is important for Members of Congress to be alert to antisemitic trends like holding Jews accountable for Israeli government actions, implying that Jews are more loyal to Israel than to America, and holding Israel to a different standard than that which would be expected of any other democratic country. AJC’s Recognizing when Anti-Israel Actions Become Antisemitic is designed to help elected officials navigate and address Israel-related antisemitism. 

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Issue unequivocal condemnations | When an incident occurs, elected officials should speak out loudly and clearly using their broad reach, raising awareness that antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem, but an assault on American values. Members of Congress must confront antisemitism head-on, especially when it emanates from colleagues, from those within their party, and/or their offices or staff. Strong statements of condemnation should come immediately and should:

• Specifically name and condemn antisemitism when it occurs, even in the larger context of free speech. 
• Offer pathways forward, including resources for victims, that can help the community heal while also proactively addressing antisemitism by generating an improved understanding of Jewish history, identity, and heritage. 
• Define antisemitism. Dozens of cities and municipalities across the country —as well as corporations, sports leagues, and universities— have embraced the IHRA Working Definition, to help determine when incidents may be deemed antisemitism.

Depoliticize the fight against antisemitism | While bipartisanship has been critical to U.S. success in countering hatred of Jews in the U.S. and abroad, the fight against antisemitism is increasingly politicized. When considered only through a partisan lens, antisemitism is not being countered, but instrumentalized. Antisemitism must not be a partisan issue used as a wedge within the Jewish community. Especially in advance of elections, we encourage Members of Congress to be mindful of politicization and reach across party lines to address antisemitism.

Engage the community | When an antisemitic incident occurs, Members of Congress should check in with their local Jewish communities. While the Jewish community is diverse—politically, religiously, ethnically, and in every other way—there are sources that represent mainstream perspectives. The local AJC office, Jewish Federation, and leaders of large synagogues are good places to start. Members of Congress should consider designating a staffer as a central coordinator for Jewish and other faith communities, especially as security needs arise. Many Members of Congress already have Jewish advisory groups or interfaith/interethnic task forces that work with local Jewish communities. 

Improve hate crime reporting | Year after year, Jews are the largest target of all religiously motivated hate crimes, despite accounting for just 2% of the U.S. population according to the FBI’s 2022 Hate Crimes Statistics report. That report also highlights gross underreporting of hate crimes in cities across the U.S., including dozens of cities with 100,000 or more residents, significantly hindering our nation’s ability to effectively counter rising antisemitism and all forms of hate. In AJC’s recently published State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, over nine in 10 Americans, both Jewish and non-Jewish, say it is important that law enforcement be required to report hate crimes to a federal government database. Currently, reporting is voluntary. Making matters worse, many hate crimes go unreported to law enforcement by victims. 

• Members of Congress should encourage law enforcement agencies in their district and state to submit hate crimes data to the FBI for its annual report. They should encourage law enforcement and faith-based institutions to apply for funding opportunities to secure vulnerable community-based institutions (such as FEMA’s nonprofit security grants) or to counter, prosecute, and report hate crimes (such as DOJ’s Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program and the Jabara-Heyer NO HATE act grants).
• Members of Congress should raise awareness within the Jewish community of the need to report antisemitic incidents to the FBI, Department of Education, social media companies, and local law enforcement. AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report revealed that one in four (25%) American Jews said they were the target of an antisemitic incident – a physical attack, a remark in person, or antisemitic vandalism or messaging –  in the past year. These statistics are inadequately reflected in official reporting mechanisms.  
• The Jabara-Heyer NO HATE Act, signed into law in May 2021, seeks to address incomplete and inaccurate hate crime reporting. Congress should appropriate at least $15 million in funds to help improve reporting of and response to hate crimes, and to stand up hate crime prevention initiatives such as hate crime hotlines. 
• Members of Congress should cosponsor the Improving Reporting to Prevent Hate Act, introduced in March 2024 by Representatives Don Beyer (D-VA) and Don Bacon (R-NE). This legislation effectively requires law enforcement agencies representing populations of 100,000 or more to report hate crimes or they will be subject to auditing and potentially ineligible for federal grant opportunities.

Guarantee enforcement when antisemitism occurs in schools | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, one in four current or recent Jewish college students have avoided wearing, carrying, or displaying things that would identify them as Jewish out of fear of antisemitism. One in five felt or were actively excluded from a group or event on campus because of antisemitism. (Last year, that number was 12%‍, showing a jump of eight percentage points in just one year). 

• Congress should support Jewish students in K-12 schools and colleges by appropriating adequate funding for the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). In September 2023, ED’s Office for Civil Rights, along with other federal agencies, specified that Title VI’s protection from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin extends to students who are or are perceived to be Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, or Sikh, or based on other shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics. They also released an updated complaint form to make filing a complaint even easier and publicized the full list of open Title VI shared ancestry investigations to increase transparency. OCR also pivoted their commitment to hold listening sessions in schools and on campus to have “interventions” with the most problematic educational spaces in America. Their work will yield invaluable long-term impact, especially needed following the surge in antisemitism after the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, and they must be funded appropriately.
• Members of Congress should also cosponsor the Protecting Students on Campus Act of 2024, introduced by Senators Bill Cassidy (R-LA) and John Fetterman (D-PA) and Representatives Kathy Manning (D-NC) and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-OR). This legislation makes it easier for students to file a discrimination complaint with the Department of Education and holds colleges and the Department of Education accountable for addressing such complaints. As campuses across the United States have been rocked by antisemitic, pro-Hamas protests that not only target Jewish students but prevent an environment conducive to learning for all, passage of this bill is urgent. 

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Publicly share positions | Members of Congress should use their platforms as elected officials, including posting on their websites and social media, to share their commitment to countering antisemitism and specific actions they have taken or will take to understand and prevent this type of hate. 

Educate to prevent antisemitism | Members of Congress should ensure they are marking and hosting educational opportunities and events around key dates, including International Holocaust Remembrance Day designated by the United Nations to take place annually on January 27. Members of Congress should issue public statements, use the opportunity to encourage Holocaust education, and hold community events reaffirming the fundamental guiding lesson of the Holocaust: never again. Commemorating the Holocaust should also focus on contemporary forms of antisemitism, including Holocaust denial and distortion. 

Celebrate Jewish American heritage and diversity | Jewish American Heritage Month occurs each May. Celebrating Jewish heritage, Jewish life, and Jewish contribution to American society in May is vital to educate about who Jews are as a people and can also help mitigate antisemitism.3 AJC offers many resources specifically designed to help elected officials celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, including talking points, customizable social media posts, and press release templates. May is also Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and Members of Congress may consider roundtable discussions about issues of common concern for Jewish and Asian constituents. AJC can also help plan community events in partnership with Members of Congress. Members of Congress should also encourage federal agencies that have online calendars recognizing heritage and history months to include Jewish American Heritage Month on their websites.

Protect Jewish institutions | Through funding and legislation, Congress plays a crucial role in safeguarding Jewish institutions. The 2018 Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act protects synagogues, community centers, and nonprofits against threats of force. The Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides funding for high-risk nonprofits to increase their preparedness and secure their properties. This essential program has been severely underfunded for years, only fulfilling 42% of requests in 2023, and applications are likely to increase significantly as antisemitic repercussions of the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel continue to be felt throughout the country and the world. Congress should appropriate at least $385 million to meet the needs not only of the Jewish community, but all vulnerable minorities. 

Prevent online threats | Congress should pass fundamental reforms to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act and hold social media companies accountable for the spread of antisemitic and hate-fueled violence on their platforms. Both governments and the public must ensure company accountability. Legislation can ensure user safety and prevent digital harms, including ensuring citizens are protected from dangerous algorithms. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle and some online platforms are calling to reform Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act, including removing special immunity, in order to hold these companies liable for amplifying dangerous content.

• Congress should ensure an online platform should lose its special immunity if it utilizes an algorithm to amplify or recommend content to a user that promotes violence or is directly relevant to a claim involving interference with civil rights or neglects to prevent interference with civil rights. Bills like the Protecting Americans from Dangerous Algorithms Act would hold social media companies accountable if their algorithmic amplification of content leads to offline violence. 
• Congress should impose stronger transparency requirements on online platforms that prevent algorithmic bias, improve moderation systems, and enforce community standards. Bills, such as the Platform Accountability and Transparency Act, the Platform Accountability and Consumer Transparency Act, and the 2019 Filter Bubble Transparency Act address algorithms and the role of content moderators. Because broad prescriptions are not often scalable and “the back end is different” across platforms, Congress should better understand the workings of major social media to ensure the legislation is achievable. Bipartisan, common sense federal reforms like these should be fully examined. For clarity and consistency, we must ensure one solution, not 50 individual state solutions, sufficiently addresses the problem. 
• Congress should pass legislation requiring social media companies to allow researchers access to the platform’s data, while maintaining users’ privacy. While open-source code is a gesture of goodwill from the companies, it must be maintained. Qualified, independent researchers can help Congress– and the social media companies themselves– better understand how the platform’s algorithms are spreading antisemitism. This is especially critical for generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) which is not user generated. 

Encourage media literacy | A number of recent antisemitic attacks originated on social media, where posts and videos demonizing Israel were viewed and shared hundreds of thousands of times. Congress should allocate resources for media literacy programs educating about the urgent need to check sources and question bias, especially online and on social media. 

Strengthen education on Jews, antisemitism, and the Holocaust | A 2020 survey on Holocaust knowledge among American millennials and Gen Z conducted by the Claims Conference found that 63% of respondents did not know that six million Jews were murdered during the Holocaust, and 36% thought “two million or fewer Jews” were killed. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 85% of Americans felt it was important that public schools invest more resources in teaching about the Holocaust. As only 39 states have taken some sort of action on Holocaust education, Congress should continue to fund and incentivize education on Jewish history, the Holocaust, and the contributions of Jews to America. 

• Members of Congress should cosponsor the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act (S.1273 / H.R. 603), which requires the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum to conduct a study on Holocaust education and resources to improve the ways in which public schools teach about the Holocaust and antisemitism. 
• Members of Congress should also cosponsor the Never Again Education Reauthorization Act of 2023 (S.3448 / H.R. 6516), which continues to support the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum as it provides teachers with training and resources to teach students about the Holocaust. 
• Members of Congress and congressional staff can also help prevent antisemitism by educating themselves. AJC offers resources and trainings to help identify and respond to antisemitism, including Holocaust denial and distortion.

Fund federal agencies | In order for federal agencies to effectively counter antisemitism within their remit, as previously mentioned, they need adequate funding. Congress should provide appropriate funding levels for the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and media literacy programs, and programs within the Department of Justice to promote hate crimes reporting and to reduce hate crimes in our communities. Jewish community protection, Jewish student well-being, and the protection of vulnerable communities across the country depends on it. 

Promote Cross-Community Partnership | Members of Congress should promote exemplary intergroup and interfaith partnerships to counter hate, discrimination, and bias in their states or districts and highlight best practices.

• Host roundtable discussions: Members of Congress should convene ethnic and religious leaders to address community concerns over hate and hate crimes. Such discussions can also include U.S. Attorney Offices, FBI Field Offices, DOJ Community Relations Service, and groups representing communities victimized by hate crimes.
• Participate in caucuses and coalitions: Members of Congress of different faith affiliations should come together across religions and political parties to speak out against hate, discrimination, and bias. Congressional caucuses model the power of coalitions to condemn hate, support vulnerable communities, and raise awareness. The Black-Jewish and Latino-Jewish caucuses bring together Members of Congress of or representing minority communities around shared concerns. With more than 150 Representatives, and more than half the Senate, the House and Senate Bipartisan Task Forces to Combat Antisemitism lead awareness-raising efforts on Capitol Hill and drive related legislative initiatives. 
• Amplify community coalitions: Members of Congress should join in the efforts of and lift up exemplary cross-community partnerships like AJC’s Muslim-Jewish Advisory Council, Latino Jewish Leadership Council, and other coalitions in solidarity and action against hate and antisemitism.

Pass legislation to ensure a comprehensive approach to counter antisemitism | Members of Congress should cosponsor the Countering Antisemitism Act, introduced in April 2024 by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and James Lankford (R-OK) and Representatives Kathy Manning (D-NC) and Chris Smith (R-NJ), co-chairs of the Senate and House Bipartisan Task Forces to Combat Antisemitism. This legislation is the most comprehensive legislation to date to counter domestic antisemitism and protect Jewish communities across the country. Many of the legislation’s provisions address topics covered within this Call to Action, such as supporting Holocaust education, the Department of Education’s ability to counter antisemitism in higher education, cracking down on the prevalence and spread of antisemitism online, and resources for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. Among its many provisions, this legislation would also create within the Executive Branch a National Coordinator to Counter Antisemitism to serve as the president’s principal advisor on countering domestic antisemitism, and coordinate federal efforts to counter antisemitism, including reviewing agencies’ implementation of U.S. government strategies to counter antisemitism.

According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 47% of American Jews approve of how their local and state governments are responding to antisemitism in the United States– a seven percentage point increase in one year (40% in 2022). As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the events of October 7, 2023, and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel, local and state elected officials have an opportunity and the responsibility to protect Jewish security, establish structures to prevent and address hate, and prevent the politicization of antisemitism.

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Promote a standard definition | The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism is globally recognized as the authoritative definition. It is a proven, flexible tool embraced by more than half of U.S. states and dozens of local municipalities. Utilize the IHRA Working Definition to deepen awareness amongst educators, members of law enforcement, prosecutors, and others. The U.S. Departments of Education and State have used the definition for years. Several European countries and agencies are already using the definition in innovative and effective ways. 

Use educational resources | AJC’s Translate Hate glossary helps identify and expose antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight. Elected officials and departments of education can share resources such as Translate Hate on their websites for educators and constituents. Public libraries around the country can offer copies. As anti-Israel protests continue to disrupt schools, campuses, and government business, resources like AJC’s Recognizing when Anti-Israel Actions Become Antisemitic can help officials identify and respond to Israel-related antisemitism.

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Issue unequivocal condemnations | When an incident occurs, elected officials should speak out loudly and clearly using their broad reach, raising awareness that antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem, but an assault on American values. Leaders must confront antisemitism head-on, especially when it emanates from colleagues, from those within their party, and/or their offices or staff. Strong statements of condemnation should come immediately and should:

• Specifically name and condemn antisemitism when it occurs, even in the larger context of free speech. 
• Offer pathways forward, including resources for victims, that can help the community heal while also proactively addressing antisemitism by generating an improved understanding of Jewish history, identity, and heritage. 
• Define antisemitism. Dozens of cities and municipalities across the country —as well as corporations, sports leagues, and universities— have embraced the IHRA Working Definition, to help determine when incidents may be deemed antisemitism.

Depoliticize the fight against antisemitism | While bipartisanship has been critical to U.S. success in countering hatred of Jews in the U.S. and abroad, the fight against antisemitism is increasingly politicized. When considered only through a partisan lens, antisemitism is not being countered, but instrumentalized. Antisemitism must not be a partisan issue used as a wedge within the Jewish community. Especially in advance of elections, we encourage candidates and elected officials to be mindful of politicization and reach across party lines to address antisemitism.

Appoint a liaison | Mayors, governors, and municipal leaders should tap a point person to be a central address for the Jewish community, especially when a security need arises. Many elected leaders have Jewish advisory groups or interfaith/interethnic task forces. State and local leaders should also work with Jewish and other religious communities to ensure that calendars for public schools and elections consider the major holidays of religious groups of all faith communities and that appropriate religious accommodations are made. 

Train staff | The staff of elected officials should be trained to identify and respond to antisemitism in their communities. Local Jewish community representatives should be present during this training to demonstrate the priority placed on the issue and to localize the specific forms of antisemitism they are facing. If they are to be effective, trainings cannot ignore antisemitism masked as anti-Zionism, despite any concern or hesitation about veering into political matters. Holding Jews collectively responsible for actions of the State of Israel is textbook antisemitism. 

Encourage reporting of hate crimes | Year after year, Jews are the largest target of all religiously motivated hate crimes, despite accounting for just 2% of the U.S. population according to the FBI’s 2022 Hate Crimes Statistics report. That report also highlights gross underreporting of hate crimes in cities across the U.S., including dozens of cities with 100,000 or more residents, significantly hindering our nation’s ability to effectively counter rising antisemitism and all forms of hate. In AJC’s recently published State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, over nine in 10 Americans, both Jewish and non-Jewish, say it is important that law enforcement be required to report hate crimes to a federal government database. Currently, reporting is voluntary. Making matters worse, many hate crimes go unreported to law enforcement by victims. 

• State and local leaders should encourage law enforcement agencies in their cities and state to submit hate crimes data to the FBI for its annual report. 
• Elected officials should raise awareness within the local Jewish community of the need to report antisemitic incidents to the FBI, Department of Education, social media companies, and local law enforcement. AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report revealed that one in four (25%) American Jews said they were the target of an antisemitic incident – a physical attack, a remark in person, or antisemitic vandalism or messaging –  in the past year. These statistics are inadequately reflected in official reporting mechanisms.  
• Local governments can leverage Department of Justice (DOJ) resources such as the Jabara-Heyer NO HATE Act grants for hate crimes bias training and to establish hate crimes hotlines so vulnerable communities feel comfortable reporting hate crimes. 

Examine bail laws | States should examine existing bail laws to ensure that violent offenses, especially hate crimes, are included on the list of offenses for which a judge may order bail. For example, New York mandates that persons charged with less than class D felonies may not be detained and may not be subject to a bail requirement, which often deters victims from reporting instances or pursuing criminal charges. Because nearly all antisemitic attacks are less than class D felonies, victimizers walk out of court with what appears to be impunity.

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Invest in Jewish community security | Increased threats necessitate additional resources for community security. Synagogues, Jewish educational and cultural sites, and individuals must receive the protection and security training they need. Local authorities should encourage religiously affiliated institutions to apply for nonprofit security grants from the Department of Homeland Security to fund physical security enhancements. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 46% of American Jews say they altered their behavior out of fear of antisemitism. In 2022, this number was 38% — a significant eight percentage point jump in one year.

As fear rises and numbers of incidents mount, local and state governments must work hand-in-glove with law enforcement. For more information on how law enforcement can work to protect Jewish communities, see AJC’s tailored recommendations. 

Implement a comprehensive strategy | Elected officials should consider an action plan to outline a comprehensive state or city-wide strategy to respond to and prevent antisemitism. These plans, while taking into account local and regional contexts, can focus on schools, the workplace, law enforcement, and other local entities which need to be prepared. For example, the U.S. states of California and Virginia have published state action plans, and New York has announced comprehensive state action to counter antisemitism. These plans should be bipartisan and not politicized. The appointment of a designated official to facilitate and streamline coordination is also recommended. 

Convene stakeholders and engage leaders in community coalitions | Local elected officials can convene community partners—as well as law enforcement—to discuss antisemitism and hate crimes, and create a diverse network of community leaders. Elected officials should join in and lift up exemplary cross-community partnerships like AJC’s Muslim Jewish Advisory Council, Latino Jewish Leadership Council, Black/Jewish coalition, Christian-Jewish relationship building, amongst other coalitions in solidarity and action against antisemitism. 

Host antisemitism trainings | Partner with AJC to plan trainings for elected officials, law enforcement, corporations, sports teams, higher education institutions, and nonprofits in your jurisdiction to help them recognize antisemitism, raise awareness, and address it using a variety of tools. To schedule a training, contact [email protected]. 

Offer targeted engagement programs focused on prevention | State and local governments should leverage resources provided by federal agencies to strengthen community-based violence prevention efforts and expand trainings with state and local partners to prevent violence motivated by hateful ideologies. For example, the Department of Homeland Security's Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention grant program and the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) Regional Prevention Coordinator program can work with Jewish communities to address concerns, build trust, and ensure accessibility. The Community Relations Service of the Department of Justice can provide awareness raising training and conflict mediation in hot spots around the country.

Encourage media literacy | Several recent attacks against Jews originated on social media. Following the Hamas-instigated conflict in Israel in May 2021, and again after the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, posts and videos demonizing Israel were viewed and shared hundreds of thousands of times which led to real life attacks against the Jewish community. State and local governments, via informal and formal education, can raise awareness about the need to check sources and question bias. State and local governments should promote media and digital literacy and critical thinking, especially among educators. 

Strengthen education on Jews, antisemitism, and the Holocaust | Thirty-nine states have taken some sort of action on Holocaust education and yet a Claims Conference study found most Millennials and Gen Z lack basic knowledge of the Holocaust. Short of mandatory Holocaust education, state and local governments can urge responsible formal or informal educational opportunities to educate youth about the Holocaust. In addition, educational curricula should include Jewish history and the contributions of Jews to America. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 91% of American Jews and 85% of U.S. adults believe it is important that public schools invest more resources in teaching age-appropriate lessons about the Holocaust for all students. Furthermore, 87% of American Jews and 81% of U.S. adults say it is important that statewide studies are conducted to assess how effectively public school districts are teaching the Holocaust. 

Include Jews in ethnic studies curricula | As states consider ethnic studies curricula, lessons should include Jews, Jewish history and contributions to America, Jewish diversity, and contemporary antisemitism. Because antisemitism presents itself in unique forms, teachers should be trained both to teach about the topic accurately and to be alert to its presence in the classroom. AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report found that 77% of American Jews and 72% of U.S. adults say it is important that state and local governments include Jewish studies within the ethnic studies or history curricula in public schools. 

Educate to prevent antisemitism | State and local elected officials should ensure they are marking and hosting educational opportunities and events around key dates, including International Holocaust Remembrance Day designated by the United Nations to take place annually on January 27. Elected officials should issue public statements, use the opportunity to encourage Holocaust education, and hold community events reaffirming the fundamental guiding lesson of the Holocaust: never again. Commemorating the Holocaust should also focus on contemporary forms of antisemitism, including Holocaust denial and distortion. 

Celebrate Jewish American heritage and diversity | Jewish American Heritage Month occurs each May. Celebrating Jewish heritage, Jewish life, and Jewish contribution to American society in May is vital to educate about who Jews are as a people and can also help mitigate antisemitism.4 AJC offers many resources specifically designed to help elected officials celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, including talking points, customizable social media posts, and press release templates. Consider including Jewish American Heritage Month on the online calendar of official websites if other heritage and history months are recognized. May is also Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and state and local officials may consider roundtable discussions about issues of common concern for Jewish and Asian constituents. AJC’s regional offices can also help plan community events in partnership with local and state government offices.

Protecting Jewish life must be a top priority. In 2023, 25% of American Jews said they were the target of antisemitism—as a physical attack, a remark in person, or vandalism to their property. For American Jews who are affiliated with a Jewish institution, 41% said their institutions were targeted by graffiti, threats, or attacks in the last five years– up from 32% in 2021. Today, almost two-thirds of American Jews (63%) say the status of Jews in the United States is less secure than a year ago. Law enforcement agencies play an imperative role in keeping Jews safe. 

Even though law enforcement is the Jewish community’s first line of defense, the AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report found that only 65% of American Jews believed that law enforcement was effective in responding to their security needs, down from 81% in 2019. Law enforcement can and must rebuild trust by squarely facing the menace of antisemitism and cultivating relationships with Jewish communities.

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Utilize a standard definition | Law enforcement on all levels—federal to local—would benefit from operating with a universal understanding of what constitutes a hate crime, especially when looking at a multifaceted issue like antisemitism. For example, during the January 2022 hostage crisis in Colleyville, Texas, the FBI erred saying it “was not related to the Jewish community.” They later corrected the record, reinforcing that many in law enforcement need to deepen awareness of the multiple faces of antisemitism—more than a religious bias, it is also a conspiracy about Jewish power and control. Thankfully, the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, including its illustrative examples, can provide important clarity for law enforcement on all forms of antisemitism. Critically, as antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the events of October 7, 2023, and as repercussions of the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel reverberate across the globe, the IHRA Working Definition provides clarity on when anti-Zionism morphs into antisemitism. The authoritative definition of antisemitism is a proven, valuable tool for law enforcement entities in the U.S. and abroad.

Ensure appropriate identification of antisemitism | AJC’s Translate Hate is a glossary of antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight. It can help law enforcement and others identify and expose antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols, and can be shared on law enforcement websites to broaden community awareness. Translate Hate can also be a valuable tool in helping law enforcement pinpoint and seek out specific things in an investigation and buttress testimony to successfully prosecute an antisemitic hate crime. Law enforcement and prosecutors may want to maintain a list of qualified experts on antisemitism should testimony be required.

Increase understanding of Judaism and the Jewish people | The Secure Community Network (SCN), the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America, has a useful and digestible “Introduction to Judaism for law enforcement officers and security professionals.” Law enforcement can also partner with SCN and/or AJC to plan trainings to help members of law enforcement agencies recognize antisemitism, raise awareness, and address it using a variety of tools. To schedule a training with AJC, contact [email protected]. Additionally, the Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services provides training on recognizing and reporting hate crimes. 

Recognize the difference between criticism of Israel and antisemitism | As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the horrific attacks on October 7, 2023 – and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel – it is important to know how antisemitism can be cloaked under the guise of criticism of Israel. Numerous examples demonstrate how anti-Israel statements and actions can become antisemitic, with potentially perilous repercussions. Some ideas or statements can be perceived as threatening to the Jewish community. For example: 

• “From the River to the Sea” is a catch-all phrase that symbolizes Palestinian control over the entirety of Israel’s borders, from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea. This saying is often interpreted as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel. 
• “Globalize the Intifada” is a phrase used by pro-Palestinian activists that calls for aggressive resistance against Israel and those who support Israel. The most prominent expressions of intifada have been through violent terrorism, so this phrase is often understood by those saying and hearing it as encouraging indiscriminate violence against Israelis, Jews, and institutions supporting Israel.
• Similarly, “Zionism is Racism” implies that self-determination is a right for all people, except Jews. There is nothing inherent to Zionism that contradicts support for Palestinian self-determination. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Therefore, calling all Zionists racists or saying Zionists deserve to die is dangerous not only to Israelis, but towards the vast majority of American Jews.

Learn from history | During the Holocaust, the police were central figures not just in maintaining public order but also in combating so-called racial enemies of the Nazi state – the epitome of normalization of antisemitism. They played a key role in the concentration, deportation, and murder of Jews in Nazi-controlled Europe. The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and other Holocaust museums around the country engage law enforcement at the federal, state, and local level to learn about the role of police in Nazi Germany and to reflect on their role in a democratic society today. 

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Issue unequivocal condemnations | As with all hate crimes, when an incident occurs, leaders in law enforcement should speak out loudly and clearly using their broad reach, affirming that antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem, but an assault on American values. 

Strong statements of condemnation should come immediately and should:

• Specifically name and condemn antisemitism when it occurs, even in the larger context of free speech. Unfortunately, it has become all too common to issue universal condemnations of hate that fail to mention the anti-Jewish character of the incident, or list antisemitism among a list of hateful “isms” when it was just the Jewish community targeted. 
• Offer pathways forward, including resources for victims, that can help the community heal while also proactively addressing antisemitism by generating an improved understanding of Jewish history, identity, and heritage. 
• Define antisemitism. Dozens of cities and municipalities across the country —as well as corporations, sports leagues, and universities— have embraced the IHRA Working Definition, to help determine when incidents may be deemed antisemitism.

AJC offers a number of online educational resources surrounding what is rendered antisemitism, which can be found here. In addition, our staff experts are available to help suggest relevant language for strong statements. Email [email protected] for assistance. 

Report hate crimes to the FBI and utilize DOJ grants to strengthen hate crime identification/reporting | Dozens of cities with populations greater than 100,000 reported zero hate crimes or did not report hate crimes to the FBI at all in 2022. Local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies voluntarily submit hate crimes data to the FBI, per the 1990 Hate Crimes Statistics Act. But inaccurate, incomplete, and simply absent hate crime data has stymied efforts to formulate effective responses. It is impossible to address hate crimes when we do not understand their extent. Over nine in 10 Americans say it is important that law enforcement be required to report hate crimes to a federal government database. Law enforcement agencies across the country should prioritize the reporting of hate crimes via the NIBRS system for the annual report. Local law enforcement can leverage Department of Justice (DOJ) resources such as the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program and the Jabara-Heyer NO HATE act grants to counter, prosecute, and report hate crimes.

Prosecute consistently and amplify convictions | Antisemitic hate crimes must be prosecuted with greater consistency and to the fullest extent of the law. If they are not, it sends a message to potential perpetrators that it is permissible to commit a hate crime because it will not be taken as seriously. Ensuring broad awareness of convictions of antisemitic hate crimes can be a powerful deterrent.

Increase engagement with the Jewish community | When antisemitism occurs, work directly with the Jewish community. While 65% of American Jews today believe law enforcement is effective in responding to the needs of the Jewish community, that number is a sharp drop from 81% in 2019. Law enforcement agencies, regardless of staffing size, can designate an appropriate senior official to be a central point of contact for local Jewish communities on security needs. Prosecuting offices and courts can also appoint an expert(s) on antisemitism as a point person in prosecuting offices to better understand motivations behind antisemitic crimes. The Jewish community’s Secure Community Network (SCN), which works closely with the Department of Homeland Security, can provide the needed expertise. AJC’s Guides to Countering Antisemitism for rabbis and congregations, public or private schools, or others, may be useful to use when building collaboration.

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Be prepared and watch for patterns | Understanding antisemitism and its patterns can help prevent it. Law enforcement should arrange for training opportunities for officers and recruits about the different ways antisemitism can manifest. By planning for predictable increases in antisemitic incidents—during elections, Jewish holidays, and conflicts within the Middle East—law enforcement can safeguard local Jewish communities and prevent attacks before they occur.

Continue to build trust with the Jewish community | AJC’s regional offices around the U.S. can help facilitate cooperation between local law enforcement and Jewish communities in their jurisdictions to build trust and promote cooperation. Law enforcement can invite Jewish community members, particularly leaders in Jewish institutions and synagogues, to participate in security training to be prepared in case of an emergency. 

Through the Secure Community Network (SCN) and the network of local and regional security programs nationwide, there are Jewish security professionals who law enforcement should know and engage. These security professionals can cement relationships and deepen trust, and serve as the point of contact between local Jewish communities and law enforcement. 

Protect Jewish institutions | Law enforcement plays a crucial role in safeguarding synagogues, Jewish community centers, and nonprofit organizations. The 2018 Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act protects all religiously affiliated property against threats of force. 

In conversations with Jewish communal leaders, law enforcement can help raise awareness of available grants and urge participation. In Fiscal Year 2023, the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides $305 million to train staff and provide physical security enhancements for minority-affiliated institutions and houses of worship. 

Encourage the Jewish community to report hate incidents | Year after year, Jews are the largest target of all religiously motivated hate crimes, despite accounting for just 2.4% of the U.S. population, yet the majority do not report antisemitism. One reason why many Jews do not report is that they believe nothing will change (resignation in fighting antisemitism) and/or it is not serious enough (normalization of antisemitism). Law enforcement should engage with the Jewish community and encourage reporting. Reinforce established protocols for the community to report suspicious activity – to include contacting local law enforcement and/or the relevant suspicious activity reporting authority – as well as the SCN Duty Desk, available 24/7/365 via [email protected] or by calling 844-SCN-DESK. Submit a tip to the FBI online at tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324). 

Partner with the Community Relations Service | As stated in the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, “America’s Peacemaker,” Community Relations Service (CRS) has numerous local offices which work with communities to resolve conflicts and prevent and respond to alleged hate crimes by providing facilitated dialogue, mediation, training, and consultation to prevent and resolve future conflict. CRS has a specific Strengthening Police and Community Partnership initiative. Relatedly, the DOJ’s Community-Based Approaches to Prevent and Address Hate Crime Program supports community-based organizations implementing comprehensive approaches to promote awareness and preparedness.

Engage leaders in community coalitions | Law enforcement should join in and lift up exemplary cross-community partnerships like AJC’s Muslim Jewish Advisory Council, Latino Jewish Leadership Council, Black/Jewish coalition, Christian-Jewish relationship building, amongst other coalitions in solidarity and action against antisemitism. 

Create prevention networks | Partner with the Center for Prevention Programs and Partnerships (CP3) within the Department of Homeland Security. CP3 works with the whole-of-society to build local prevention frameworks. Also consider participating in or implementing a program like Tackle!, a customized curriculum to empower public officials to develop local prevention frameworks to protect their communities from threats motivated by extremism or bigotry. Funded in part by a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grant, Tackle! is a partnership between Muflehun, a resource center, and AJC. 

Online and on social media continue to be the place where American Jews experience antisemitism the most. It is also where most Americans see antisemitism. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 62% of Jewish adults have seen antisemitic content online or on social media at least once in the past 12 months, including 11% who saw antisemitic content on online gaming platforms. This overall number increases to 67% for young American Jews ages 18-29, with 18% seeing antisemitism on online gaming platforms. Nearly one in three (30%) American Jews have avoided posting content online that would identify them as Jewish or reveal their views on Jewish issues. 

Online antisemitism and misinformation about Jews and Israel have offline consequences. Among American Jews who experienced antisemitism online or on social media, 22% report these incidents made them feel physically threatened. While lawmakers from both sides of the aisle and some platforms are calling for increased regulation, social media and gaming companies have the biggest responsibility to ensure their platforms are not used as launching pads for conspiracies, antisemitism, and hatred. 

AI companies also have a role to play. For the first time, AJC’s report asked American Jews about generative artificial intelligence (AI). 72% of American Jews are concerned (very or somewhat) that generative AI or automated systems, such as ChatGPT, will spread misinformation about Jews. 62% of American Jews expressed concern that generative AI will show bias against Israel. In the following resource, recommendations specifically for AI are indicated as such.

Social media, gaming, and AI companies must affirm that antisemitism will not be permitted or facilitated on their platforms or by their products. Freedom of speech does not absolve them of corporate responsibility. 

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Utilize a standard definition | While social media and gaming companies say there is no place for antisemitism on their platforms, many do not have a definition of what contemporary antisemitism actually looks like. Companies should utilize the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism to strengthen policies around hate speech and hateful conduct, violence, abuse and harassment, Dangerous Organizations and Individuals (DOI), and synthetic and manipulated media, amongst others, across their platforms. This will allow artificial intelligence and human moderators to be more consistent and more effective in either content removal or demotion of all forms of antisemitism on their platforms. 

Train AI models to properly identify antisemitism, including contemporary terms and tropes | Antisemitism can be difficult to pinpoint because it is motivated by disparate ideologies. Holocaust denial and distortion are expressions of antisemitism as well as the trivialization of the Holocaust. Conspiracies of Jewish power and control continue to threaten the well-being of Jewish communities. The speech tendencies of hate groups also may be surprising. For example, certain white supremacist groups are known to use less profanity than may be expected. Therefore, companies using AI need to incorporate these tendencies into their training data to ensure that their large language models (LLMs) are not trained to share antisemitic content. In addition, because antisemitic speech is often coded, companies must ensure their products are trained to recognize specific linguistic markers such as plural noun forms, such as ‘whiteness.’ They should then consider creating computational models and workflows specific to the Jewish community that detect extremist speech and prevent it. These models would then understand the unique nature of hate speech, specifically white supremacist speech and antisemitic slogans, and accurately prevent it.5

Companies can utilize resources, such as Translate Hate, an online glossary of antisemitic tropes and phrases, to improve AI models' ability to surface antisemitic content, as well as to improve media literacy on antisemitism within the company, especially for policy and trust and safety teams. Translate Hate is also available in Spanish, with appropriate cultural references: Traduciendo el Odio. 

Recognize the difference between criticism of Israel and antisemitism | As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the horrific attacks on October 7, 2023 – and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel – social media and gaming companies must be keenly aware of how antisemitism can be cloaked under the guise of criticism of Israel. Numerous examples demonstrate how anti-Israel statements and actions can become antisemitic, with potentially perilous repercussions. While calls for rape or violence against Jews are clear calls for incitement, it is crucial to understand how some ideas or statements can be perceived as threatening to the Jewish community. For example: 

• “From the River to the Sea” is a catch-all phrase that symbolizes Palestinian control over the entirety of Israel’s borders, from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea. This saying is often interpreted as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel. 
• “Globalize the Intifada” is a phrase used by pro-Palestinian activists that calls for aggressive resistance against Israel and those who support Israel. The most prominent expressions of intifada have been through violent terrorism, so this phrase is often understood by those saying and hearing it as encouraging indiscriminate violence against Israelis, Jews, and institutions supporting Israel.
• Similarly, “Zionism is Racism” implies that self-determination is a right for all people, except Jews. There is nothing inherent to Zionism that contradicts support for Palestinian self-determination. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Therefore, calling all Zionists racists or saying Zionists deserve to die is dangerous not only to Israelis, but towards the vast majority of American Jews.

Ensure ongoing research in latest trends | To better understand antisemitism, companies should engage frequently with civil society groups that actively monitor antisemitism. Not only should their policy and trust and safety teams be briefed, but so should major influencers who use the platforms so they can push out accurate, fact-based information. Online antisemitism—transmitted in memes, coded language or images, and implicit speech—rapidly evolves. Social media and AI companies should study hate speech, incorporate linguistic markers, and create detection models. 

Name antisemitism within terms of service | Companies’ terms of service should specifically reference and define antisemitism, and antisemitism should be included as a separate category in transparency reports. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, nine in 10 (89%) American Jews say it is important for social media companies to explicitly cover antisemitism in the platforms’ terms of service and community standards. Those who say they have felt physically threatened by an online incident are far more likely than those who have not, to deem this measure very important (81% versus 56%).

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Be accountable | When antisemitism consistently occurs and is spread on the platform, publicly condemn and work to fix the gaps. Given that company algorithms and recommendation systems have driven users into echo chambers, aided collective harassment, promoted radicalization, and digitally amplified biases and spread antisemitism, companies should be honest about the harm their products have caused to re-earn public trust. They should disclose all reported antisemitic and hateful materials, and they should specifically note what items were actioned, what items were not actioned, and justifications for such decisions, as well as engagement rates and hosted advertising. Companies should be committed to not profiting from hate.

Make it easier for users to report antisemitism | For American Jews who experienced antisemitism online or on social media in the past 12 months, only 35% reported the incident. The majority (65%) did not report. This may be why most American Jews (90%) say it is important for social media companies to make it easy to report antisemitism specifically. To mitigate these issues, list antisemitism as an independent option for users to flag when reporting harmful content. In addition, one-to-one reporting is too slow and better technology embedded in the platform/product to counter antisemitism is needed. Companies must also address the increasing challenge of inappropriate mass reporting. Jewish users and Jewish accounts have been harassed and mass-flagged, even when they did not do anything wrong.

Keep and improve policies | Companies should not make changes to their existing policies that would result in increasing the visibility and distribution of antisemitic content and misinformation likely to contribute to a risk of harm, including loosening restrictions around praise of Dangerous Organizations and Individuals (DOI), many of which are violent antisemites. Social media companies should establish community standards indicating that antisemitic speech will not be permitted on their platforms and that they will not facilitate access to services that do not prohibit it. Relatedly, they must guarantee appropriate safeguards to allow initial judgments deeming content to be antisemitic (or not) to be appealed and reviewed. They should also ensure that these policies are updated as antisemitism morphs and changes, including conspiratorial antisemitism and anti-Israel/anti-Zionist antisemitism. For example, the call to “Globalize the Intifada,” a phrase seen increasingly online, incites violence against Jewish people and should be designated accordingly. Social media and gaming companies have danced around this for years, saying anti-Zionism is solely political. But in this moment, especially as Jewish lives around the world have been endangered since the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, companies must account for far-left, Islamist, and violent anti-Israel antisemitism, in the same way they have accurately captured far-right extremism in their policies. They should have clear policies for when the word “Zionist” is used as a proxy for Jews. After all, the far-right is also weaponizing this conflict and using their own anti-Zionist symbols to promulgate hate. 

Improve moderation systems | Moderation systems can be improved and harmonized to ensure moderators are accurately and equally implementing policies and community standards. The following steps will allow companies to better provide their users with harassment-free spaces and empower their users to take part in the fight for healthy discourse online:

• Explicitly cover antisemitism in terms of service and community standards. Doing this will improve moderation systems and more effectively ensure the safety of all users, including Jewish users, on their platforms.
• Reconsider automated detection of antisemitic content. In the rapidly evolving space of online antisemitism—which relies on memes, coded language or images, and implicit speech—non-human regulatory models are not fast enough. Even the best models, like ChatGPT, which can access vast portions of the internet, have difficulties understanding context. Companies should reconsider current approaches and invest more seriously in the human and technical resources necessary to enable vigorous, timely enforcement of their terms of service and community standards and ensure hatred and misinformation about Jews is not inadvertently being spread.
• Ensure human testing of the models. Social media companies are using AI to moderate their platforms, yet these systems are not quite built. Because AI is being trained on policies, the policies must agree about what antisemitism and anti-Jewish hate speech is for these large language models (LLMs) to be accurate in capturing all attacks against Jews. Again, companies should integrate a comprehensive definition of antisemitism into their policies, to train both their AI systems and human content moderators on the various forms of contemporary antisemitism.
• Close the language gap. There is currently an enforcement gap between English and non-English language source material. Social media platforms need to be as vigilant against hate in non-English languages as they are against hate in English. The language of hateful posts should not be an excuse for a lack of enforcement. Moderators who are not fluent in English need to be trained in their native language to understand company policies related to antisemitism as well as how to recognize the antisemitism coming from within their own historical, linguistic, political, religious, and economic contexts. 
• Ensure a proper appeal process. Safeguards must exist to allow judgments deeming content to be antisemitic to be appealed and reviewed. 
• Address the increasing challenge of inappropriate mass reporting from users and bad actors. Jewish users and Jewish accounts have been harassed and mass-flagged, even when they did not do anything wrong.
• Publicly share information about content moderation. Social media companies should also regularly publish information about the impact of their moderation systems, including steps taken to effectively stop recommending, and de-rank, antisemitic, hateful content as well as the number of human moderators addressing online hate, the training that such moderators receive, and procedures for reinstating content that has been incorrectly removed. 

Enforce disciplinary measures | When the platform’s terms of service and community standards are violated, including intimidation, harassment, threats, and unprotected hate speech, moderators need to be prepared to enforce these disciplinary measures without equivocation, including permanently banning repeat offenders, both personal accounts and extremist groups. Inconsistent enforcement threatens the safety of all vulnerable communities. 

Publish and improve transparency reports | All social media and gaming companies should publish transparency reports, which include company processes, implementation of policies, and safeguarding mechanisms. These reports can be improved with better metrics, including cross-disciplinary approaches such as from the field of computer science. For example, according to the Online Hate Prevention Institute, companies should provide disaggregated data on the volume and removal rates of antisemitism in the following sub-categories: traditional antisemitism; Holocaust-related antisemitism, including Nazi glorification; incitement to violence against Jews and glorification of violence against Jews; and antisemitism which targets the Jewish collective, including the State of Israel as a substitute for the Jewish collective.  

Push out or redirect users to accurate information | Respond by actively taking part in the fight against mis/disinformation by amplifying accurate material and providing context to their users for material that is more suspect but still remains on their site. Companies should support AI-enabled educational tools that push out accurate, verifiable information, which would encourage prosocial behavior and curbs the spread of antisemitism. For example, Meta implemented pop-ups to provide accurate information about topics such as Covid-19 and the Holocaust. X (then Twitter) provided labels to tweets that were spreading misinformation concerning the 2020 U.S. election. In addition to de-amplifying these tweets through their algorithm, they also labeled these tweets with warnings before users engaged with the material. These models should be considered in the wake of the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023. Social media and gaming companies should also provide labels when content is harmful or false or redirect users to trusted sources. In addition, social media companies should amplify trusted partners’ content to ensure accurate information is more readily viewed. 

Promote counterspeech and digital literacy | Social media companies can play a powerful role in reminding users that it is incumbent on all of us to correct false narratives, drown out hateful voices, and push antisemites back to the far-fringes of the Internet where they belong—far removed from mainstream platforms and access to impressionable minds. We know, however, that counterspeech has the adverse effect of elevating antisemitic posts’ visibility because there is more engagement with them. Therefore, social media companies can partner with Jewish organizations directly to push back against antisemitism on their platforms. Additionally, social media companies should promote digital literacy and ensure that users are aware of how their systems are designed before using these sites.

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Enhance Jewish community outreach | A number of social media companies have consistent outreach with Jewish communal leaders and organizations. For those who do not, including gaming and AI companies, consider starting regular meetings with Jewish stakeholders. Companies can work with Jewish communal leaders to host town hall-style events or trainings to educate users and the broader community on efforts to counter antisemitism and bias. For more information about trainings on antisemitism, please contact [email protected]. Companies can also engage with civil society groups, including Jewish organizations, to learn best practices on monitoring antisemitism, and to engage user researchers who can pressure test the models and provide valuable insights for AI improvements.

Test and fix AI tools | The first key principle from the October 2023 “Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence,” is that AI must be safe, secure, and trustworthy. Although AI is used everywhere today, ethics in AI is at its infancy stage globally. Companies should recognize AI tools are being used against Jewish users and have a plan to fix them. Antisemitism is one of the most layered and complex forms of hate for a LLM to understand and, critically, manifestations of this hatred go well beyond text, including AI-generated images (representational harms). A dangerous trend among social media companies has been the recommendation of hateful or inaccurate content to users who may not have otherwise been exposed to such hateful or biased media. The following recommendations are critical: 

• Prevent AI bias. Implement bolstered algorithmic capabilities that will effectively stop recommending, and de-rank, antisemitic, hateful content.
• Test the effectiveness of your AI model. According to the Online Hate Prevention Institute, companies should be able to answer, “How accurate is the model in labeling antisemitism?” “What percent of content the model classifies as antisemitism is really antisemitism?” They should be transparent about the model’s precision. Companies should also share how much antisemitism on the platform the model is able to find, known as the model’s recall. Both precision and recall data need to be shared. Additionally, invest in third parties to pressure test their AI models on antisemitism.
• Acknowledge deficiencies. For AI companies, chatbots have the ability to inform users when the data provided by users is irrelevant for a certain query. Chatbots should inform users when this is the case, especially when the question posed is outside of the timeframe from which the chatbot was trained. For example, when a chatbot is asked about events from October 7, 2023, it should be forthright about the fact that it was only trained on data up to December 2022 if this is indeed the case.
• Target fraud and deception efforts. Authenticate official content and actively monitor for AI-generated material. AI technologies provide ample opportunity for fraud and deception. Antisemites can use such technologies towards malicious ends. Companies should seek to protect users and their information by verifying content and ensuring that AI-generated material is marked as such.

Address risks and set guardrails | Because AI systems can generate factually inaccurate information, even “making up or hallucinating research reports, laws, or historical events in their outputs,” according to the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Institute, companies must have guardrails in place.6 Malicious use, privacy risks, bias, security threats, lack of transparency, and other costs, including antisemitism, must be mitigated and publicly addressed. Most importantly, human agency and decision-making must be protected. 

Ensure correct, verifiable information and list citations | Questions posed to an AI system with objective answers should be met with correct, verifiable information. AI companies must prevent speculation, especially considering the highly political and sensitive nature of many queries posed to chatbots. When an AI cannot provide such an answer or does not have the adequate information for a response, it should clearly indicate that it cannot respond with correct, proven information to the query. It is also not the place of chatbots to embody the human bias and political tendencies of their programmers without acknowledging such bias and attempting to provide truthful, accurate answers. Relatedly, chatbots should also cite their sources to show users where the information provided is coming from. Chatbots are trained on data and have the ability to show users from where they derive their information. This way, users can check the chatbots to make sure that the information is true, accurate, and verifiable.

Develop a Code of Ethics, including guidelines for privacy-related material | Social media, gaming, and AI companies should abide by a Code of Ethics and adhere to core principles to earn public trust. They should be open about what responsible measures they have implemented to handle sensitive information. As the nature of information becomes more complex with access to AI technologies, companies are responsible for clarifying their practices and protecting user information.

Share critical information with the U.S. Government | Companies should include the U.S. government as an active partner in the fight against antisemitism. To aid in these efforts, companies should share the results of safety tests and other critical measures with relevant contacts at the U.S. government. 

Elevate integrity workers’ voices | Integrity workers at social media companies, those working in policy and Trust and Safety, must be given the power and respect necessary to effectively complete their job. This means that not only should integrity workers be involved at the various stages of product design and development, but they should also be given the ability to make necessary adjustments to the product with the health, safety, and wellness of future users in mind.

• Empower Trust and Safety. Trust and safety teams within the companies have the critical job of actioning violative content and should be given more authority. In this present moment– not only because of rising antisemitism and hate, but also platform manipulation and coordinated behavior, trust and safety staff should increase. Companies should provide information about their number of moderators, which countries they operate in, which native language they speak, and how they have been trained. Companies should also answer how they are utilizing different language experts within trust and safety teams, and how they are mitigating any personal biases (cultural, historical, and even educational) these individuals may have against Jews. As noted in the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, by investing in human and technical resources, including trust and safety councils, social media and gaming companies will enable more vigorous and timely enforcement of platforms’ terms of service and community standards. 
• Connect policy managers with product engineers. There cannot be a disconnect between policy managers, who are concerned with the proliferation of online hate, and product engineers, who may be hyperfocused on the product’s rollout and its revenue generation. Policy managers must be in conversation with product engineers through every phase of design, building, and research to ensure that products do not cause unwanted externalities in the realm of online hate. 

Establish new positions | Social media companies should hire a point person focused on the Jewish diaspora to both listen to the concerns of Jewish communities around the world and work with senior leadership within the company so structural changes happen to ensure antisemitism is understood, recognized, and properly addressed. Additionally, companies should assign user researchers to the Jewish community to better understand how Jewish users experience antisemitism and hate on their platform so proper changes can be made. 

Ban Holocaust denial and distortion | Every platform should ban Holocaust denial and distortion as a matter of policy and actively monitor and enforce these bans on their sites. Relatedly, social media and gaming companies should treat content denying or distorting the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel– the biggest single-day massacre of Jews since the Holocaust– similarly. October 7th denial should be prohibited. Companies should dedicate appropriate resources to remove it at scale under the denial of well-documented violent events policy, as detailed in the January 2024 CyberWell report on “Denial of the October 7 Massacre on Social Media Platforms.”

Endorse a prevention science approach | According to the National Institutes of Health, prevention science seeks to “understand how to promote health and well-being and prevent health conditions from starting or getting worse. It spans all diseases, conditions, populations, and phases of life.” Antisemitism is a present condition online, one that has only metastasized since the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks. Social media companies should adopt the prevention science framework to better understand the root psychology of what is driving attitudes online (i.e., anxiety, distrust, loneliness, conspiratorial thinking, etc.) and prioritize addressing those bigger issues to prevent antisemitism resulting from these situations.

Be open to the input of outside vendors | Social media companies can be innovative in their implementation of third-party technology to the benefit of users. For example, given the complexity of antisemitism, social media companies can utilize external large language models (LLMs) developed specifically to surface antisemitism on their platforms, and then subsequently have their human moderators determine if it is violative of their policies. This system allows for effective automation while leaving the final decision in the hands of human moderators at the social media company. Outside vendors can also test for moderation and enforcement accuracy. For example, rigorous third-party testing of Community Notes on X (formerly Twitter) can determine effectiveness of this product mitigating misinformation on the platform. With new knowledge, X can discuss a penalty for users who continue to post misinformation warranting Community Notes. Social media and gaming companies should consider supporting organizations that are finding and reporting violative antisemitic content that their company’s AI is not finding. Often these organizations are non-profits doing the work of the companies and should be financially supported. They should also fund independent audits. Platforms should undergo routine, transparent, and independent audits that allow for third-party reviewers to rate the progress of the platform in terms of its effort to combat antisemitism and hate speech.

Collaborate and share best practices | Because certain social media and gaming companies do a much better job at preventing antisemitism and hate on their platforms, they should share and actively promote best practices for other sites to adopt and enforce. In like manner, certain AI companies and their products outpace others in terms of safety and accuracy. Coordinated efforts across company platforms can help ensure that extremism, antisemitism, and hate will not proceed to migrate from one site to another in the manner it currently does.

The media plays a critical role in determining what Americans pay attention to and how informed they are about the issues shaping our country and our world. The media not only has the ability but also a responsibility to raise awareness about antisemitism and hold leaders accountable. They have the power to inform and prevent. 

Please note the big-picture suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Know how to identify antisemitism, including contemporary terms and tropes | Antisemitism can be difficult to pinpoint because it is motivated by disparate ideologies. It is important for reporters, journalists, producers, and editors to remember that antisemitism can take many forms, not just swastikas sprayed outside a synagogue, or graves desecrated at a Jewish cemetery, for example. Holocaust denial and distortion are an expression of antisemitism as well as the trivialization of the Holocaust.7 Casual references to Hitler and the Nazis, while not necessarily antisemitic, are almost always perceived by Jews as insensitive and inappropriate. Conspiracies of Jewish power and control continue to threaten the well-being of Jewish communities. AJC’s Translate Hate is a visual glossary which exposes antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight. In print or online, Translate Hate can be used to explain why something is antisemitic. Refer to AJC’s short, animated film called “What is antisemitism?” to understand how antisemitism has changed over time and what it looks like today. 

Recognize the difference between criticism of Israel and antisemitism | As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the horrific attacks on October 7, 2023 – and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel – media must be keenly aware of how antisemitism can be cloaked under the guise of criticism of Israel. Numerous examples demonstrate how anti-Israel statements and actions can become antisemitic, with potentially perilous repercussions. Finally, it is crucial for those working in media to understand how some ideas or statements can be perceived as threatening to the Jewish community. For example: 

• “From the River to the Sea” is a catch-all phrase that symbolizes Palestinian control over the entirety of Israel’s borders, from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea. This saying is often interpreted as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel. 
• “Globalize the Intifada” is a phrase used by pro-Palestinian activists that calls for aggressive resistance against Israel and those who support Israel. The most prominent expressions of intifada have been through violent terrorism, so this phrase is often understood by those saying and hearing it as encouraging indiscriminate violence against Israelis, Jews, and institutions supporting Israel.
• Similarly, “Zionism is Racism” implies that self-determination is a right for all people, except Jews. There is nothing inherent to Zionism that contradicts support for Palestinian self-determination. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Therefore, calling all Zionists racists or saying Zionists deserve to die is dangerous not only to Israelis, but towards the vast majority of American Jews.
• Using data from problematic sources, such as the Gaza Ministry of Health, which is run by the terrorist organization Hamas. When the media relies on data and figures from Hamas and quotes them as fact, they can be spreading misinformation, or even psychological warfare, with dangerous ramifications. In general, it is critical for the media to be aware of how the majority in the Jewish community perceive tough questions about what is happening in Gaza. 
• Finally, holding Israel to a different standard. Expecting Israel to refrain from defending itself against terror attacks, particularly those that occurred on October 7, 2023 – the most deadly attack against Jews since the Holocaust –  is a double standard that would not be expected of any other democratic country.

The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, the authoritative definition of antisemitism, provides practical examples that provide context to determine whether something is antisemitic. Examples include discrimination and hatred of Jews, conspiracy theories, Holocaust denial and distortion, and antisemitism related to Israel. 

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Ask questions | When covering an antisemitic or anti-Israel incident, ask: 

1. What is the narrative being conveyed? Are stereotypes or tropes being employed? 
2. Who is the authoritative voice being quoted? Is it a fringe or a mainstream perspective? Is data coming from an authoritative, trusted source?
3. Who can I contact to help understand the issues in greater depth, or for other questions about Judaism, the Jewish community, Israel, or other Jewish-related issues?
4. What is the headline being considered? Does it highlight the offensive nature of the incident? 
5. How is the Jewish community feeling after the incident is over? How did it impact them? Have they changed their behavior or religious practice as a result?

Appropriately relay the impact of antisemitism | AJC’s annual State of Antisemitism in America Report illustrates the magnitude and impact of the problem. For example, according to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report:

• 63% of American Jews say the status of Jews in the U.S. is less secure compared to one year ago. In 2022, this number was 41%. In 2021, it was 31%.
• 25% of American Jews say they were the personal target of antisemitism in the past year.
• 46% of American Jews say they altered their behavior out of fear of antisemitism. In 2022, this number was 38%— a significant eight percentage point jump in one year.
• 78% of American Jews who heard something about the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel said the attacks made them feel less safe as a Jewish person in the U.S. 

Report consistently | During the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Jews have been attacked on the street, synagogues have been vandalized, protesters have carried antisemitic signs, and hateful rhetoric has proliferated on social media. Yet, during the May 2021 conflict, for example, over half of all Americans were unaware of it. Additionally, the continuous attacks on Haredi Jews in New York have received little media attention from non-Jewish media outlets. When the media does not report on incidents like these, Jewish communities—and victims—may feel marginalized. 

Report accurately about Jews (and Israel) | Media coverage can shape public perceptions, not just of antisemitism, but of Jews and Judaism. Too often, media outlets air only images of “visibly Jewish” Orthodox Jews, and rarely show Jews of color. Accuracy in reporting can help raise awareness vital for prevention. 

Especially in times of conflict in the Middle East, it is imperative that reporting is accurate. There is a real danger in repeating untrue or biased reports without strong verification, especially when many viewers and readers may not see a correction or retraction. It is critical – life saving even – to know the facts. For example, after widespread reporting blamed Israeli forces for an explosion at Al-Shifa hospital (when in fact it was caused by a rocket misfired from Gaza by a terror organization), violent protests erupted across the globe, including in Tunisia where a synagogue was firebombed and completely destroyed.

Guard against visual displays of hate | When an antisemitic incident is being covered on television and other visual media outlets, media outlets should consider whether blurring hateful symbols and words can prevent the dissemination of hate, or whether sharing the images within an educational context can show the impact it has on the Jewish community. Context is critical. Antisemites often seek public attention, and the media can inadvertently feed that desire. At the same time, media outlets are responsible for educating their audiences.

Challenge antisemitism | Reporters and journalists should be trained in how to respond if a person being interviewed says something antisemitic or dog whistles to those who would call for Israel’s destruction. When this happens, the media has the power to hold offenders accountable and demand public apologies. When members of the media question someone on their use of charged language, they are sending a critical signal that turning a blind eye to hate is not part of objectivity. When there is time, it is best to ascertain intent and/or check with credible and authoritative sources in the Jewish community on whether they regard a statement as antisemitic. AJC’s Translate Hate glossary can be used to explain why something is antisemitic. On air or in-person, calling out tropes or stereotypes not only is the right thing to do, but it also lends credibility to the media outlet. 

Know who to call | While the Jewish community is diverse—politically, religiously, ethnically, and in every other way—there are sources who represent mainstream perspectives. A local AJC office, Jewish Federation, or the leaders of large local synagogues, are good places to start. Reporters and journalists should keep at the ready a list of unbiased resources on antisemitism and issues related to Israel to make sure they are correctly interpreting an incident or a statement and its antisemitic implications.

Acknowledge the societal impact | Hatred of Jews shares much in common with other forms of hate. The attacks that targeted Latino immigrants in El Paso, Texas and Black Americans in Buffalo, New York were driven by fears of “replacement” and “invasion,”conspiracies based in antisemitism. While antisemitism most intensely and directly impacts the American Jewish community, it also threatens the democracy, security, values, and rights of all Americans. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 92% of U.S. adults believe “antisemitism affects society as a whole; everyone is responsible for combating it.” When the media reports on antisemitism, it is not singling out a particular issue but raising awareness of a societal problem.

Antisemitism is not only an attack on Jews but an assault on the core values of any democratic and pluralistic society. 

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Recognize media’s role in shaping public understanding | Strive for reporting that accurately and intentionally broadens appreciation of American Jewish heritage, culture, and identity. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, over one in three (37%) U.S. adults do not know someone who is Jewish. As such, many of these Americans only know about Jews and Judaism through other mediums, such as the news. It is imperative that people’s perceptions of Jews are not only couched in stereotypes or reports of antisemitic incidents. Articles highlighting American Jews’ histories and experiences show that the Jewish American experience is much broader and more multifaceted than the hate levied against Jews. 

Journalists, reporters, producers, and editors should be trained to identify antisemitic terms and tropes, and be provided with a baseline understanding of Jews and Judaism if they will be working on these issues. AJC has helped train media corporations from the Kentucky Courier-Journal to the E.W. Scripps Media Company, on this topic. To schedule a training, contact [email protected].

Avoid perpetuating stereotypes and misrepresentations | Aim for accurate, context-specific depictions. Too often, media outlets air only images of “visibly Jewish” Orthodox Jews. Jews are a people, not just adherents of a religion. They are not a race, as there are Jews from nearly every race. Some Jews are atheists, or not religious, or are culturally associated with Jewish traditions. Accuracy in reporting can help raise awareness vital for prevention. Refer to AJC’s short, animated film called “Who are Jews?” to learn more about Jewish history and identity.

Reduce bias | Antisemitism emerges from the far-left, the far-right, and religious extremists. The media should be aware of the sources of antisemitism and raise awareness among their audiences as well. Media outlets with an ideological bent should report on antisemitism within their own encampment, as well as on the opposite side.

Be prepared for patterns | There are days and events which are likely to trigger antisemitic incidents. Antisemitism spikes historically around three key areas: during elections, Jewish holidays, and when there is an uptick in violence in the Middle East. Since the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel, antisemitic incidents have risen roughly 400% in the U.S, and similar trends are found around the world.

Standardize company policies | Media outlets can consider implementing a comprehensive policy on how to address antisemitism, either for internal use or to share with concerned audiences. 

Adopt zero-tolerance terms of service and community standards | Media companies should adopt terms of service and community standards indicating that their online platforms will not permit antisemitic speech and will not facilitate access to services to users who perpetuate it. Relatedly, they must guarantee appropriate safeguards to allow initial judgments deeming content to be antisemitic (or not) to be appealed and reviewed. To effectively do this, the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, as the global, authoritative definition of antisemitism, should be incorporated within community standards.

Enforce proper disciplinary measures | Enforce proper disciplinary measures when the company’s terms of service and community standards are violated, including intimidation, harassment, threats, and unprotected hate speech. Companies need to be prepared to enforce these disciplinary measures without equivocation, including permanently banning repeat offenders.

According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, more than six in 10 (63%) American Jews say the status of Jews in the United States is “less secure than a year ago”– more than a 20 percentage point increase in just one year (and a 30 percentage point increase over two years). 78% of American Jews who heard something about the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel, said the attack made them feel less safe as a Jewish person in the U.S. 

Notably, one in five (19%) American Jews reported local businesses where they live have been the target of antisemitism in the past five years. 

American leadership in the private sector plays a critical role in fighting all forms of hatred, including anti-Jewish hate, and promoting inclusive environments. Fostering greater sensitivity to concerns of Jewish employees can prevent antisemitism in the workplace and increase the sense of belonging of Jewish employees. 

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Define what constitutes antisemitism | The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, which defines antisemitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews,” is the best tool for those with a practical need to identify antisemitism. It includes practical examples to determine whether something is antisemitic, such as discrimination and hatred of Jews, conspiracy theories, Holocaust denial and distortion, and antisemitism related to Israel. Internationally recognized as the authoritative definition, the IHRA Working Definition has been adopted by more than 1,000 bodies, including more than 40 countries and multilateral organizations such as the European Union and the Organization of American States. This same educational tool can be employed to better understand incidents in the workplace and for educating employees about antisemitism. In addition, AJC’s Translate Hate, a visual glossary of antisemitic tropes and phrases, can be an invaluable tool to understand antisemitism for corporations within their anti-discriminations policies and employee trainings. 

Know antisemitism “looks different” than other forms of hate | While many American Jews identify as a vulnerable minority group, especially as antisemitism surges in the aftermath of Hamas’ attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, Jews today collectively tend to be assailed for having too much privilege or too much power. This is what makes antisemitism different from other forms of hate: it rests on a conspiracy theory. Especially in today’s context of anti-racism and social justice movements, which deal explicitly with questions of power, companies must have a plan to address antisemitism specifically when Jews are attacked or face a double standard because of their perceived power. Double standards in the workplace are not only morally wrong but also expose the company to legal liability under federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws. Refer to AJC’s short, animated film called “What is antisemitism?” to understand how antisemitism has changed over time and what it looks like today. 

Increase awareness and understanding of who Jews are | Successful incorporation of Jews and antisemitism within company training (including DEI) must recognize the diversity of the Jewish people. In order to ensure Jewish inclusion, companies must acknowledge Jewish peoplehood. Jews reflect diverse racial, ethnic, and national backgrounds and express their identity in a variety of religious and cultural ways. The majority practice Judaism, or at least are culturally associated with Jewish traditions, but others are not. Many Jews are secular or atheist, but they are still Jews. At a time when antisemitism against Jews, including violence, is soaring, it is recommended that employers focus specifically on antisemitism in their education and communication as opposed to only including it within broader conversations about religious or interfaith understanding. Refer to AJC’s short, animated film called “Who are Jews?” to better understand Jewish history and identity. 

Recognize Jewish ties to Israel | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Many American Jews feel a historical, religious, or cultural connection to Israel, regardless of politics. Judaism as a religion is integrally tied to the land, to the city of Jerusalem, and other holy sites. Jews have lived continuously in the region for thousands of years. Coming out of two millennia of persecution, not least the Holocaust, many Jews see Israel as the only place where they can live free from fear and persecution. Hamas’ brutal attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, the most deadly against the Jewish people since the Holocaust, have reopened deep wounds for many in the Jewish community. For example, the latest data reveals 24% of American Jews in the workplace have avoided expressing their views on Israel because of fears of antisemitism. It is important for employers to recognize that while it is not antisemitic to criticize actions of the State of Israel, denying Jews’ right to national self-determination, calling for the elimination of Israel, solely focusing on Israel but no other country, and/or attributing to Jews actual or perceived wrongs by the Israeli government is antisemitism. Leaders in the private sector should be sensitive to these concerns, which are exacerbated by surging global antisemitism and often guised in the language of criticism of Israel. 

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Issue unequivocal condemnations, starting at the top | When an antisemitic incident occurs at the company, within the industry, or in the area, corporate leadership should call it out unambiguously, unequivocally, and specifically. Unfortunately, it has become all too common for companies to issue universal condemnations of hate that fail to even mention the anti-Jewish character of the incident, or list antisemitism among a list of hateful “isms” when it was just the Jewish community targeted. Company CEOs and senior leaders must immediately speak out loudly and clearly against all forms of antisemitism whenever it occurs. When the C-suite of a company issues these swift and strong condemnations, it sends a message to the entire organization that antisemitism is a serious issue worthy of attention. For an external corporate condemnation, please see MRC Entertainment’s powerful statement on Kanye West’s antisemitic rhetoric and behavior.

Address harassment | The EEOC’s fact sheet, “What To Do If You Face Antisemitism At Work,” outlines Title VII requirements from the 1964 Civil Rights Act for religious accommodation and outlines prohibition of disparate treatment, segregation, harassment, and retaliation toward Jewish employees. 

Policies and training are necessary, but they are not sufficient. For cultural and legal reasons, management generally must respond to anti-Jewish harassment—even if there is no complaint or objection—if management sees, hears, or otherwise becomes aware of it, even if it was intended as a “joke.” If an internal antisemitic incident or series of anti-Jewish attacks occurs, the company should publish a statement or resolution condemning antisemitism, at the very least internally, to the same degree that other forms of hate are called out. For a template, please see the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) resolution. 

Encourage reporting | All employees, managers, and non-managers alike should also be given alternative ways to raise concerns, both internally and externally. Encourage employees to report incidents of antisemitism and hate at their businesses to the proper internal and/or external authorities, including local law enforcement and community organizations, when appropriate. 

Listen to Jewish employees | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, antisemitism is affecting American Jews in the workplace. For Jewish adults who are employed full-time or part-time, and not self-employed, 15% have avoided wearing or displaying something that would identify them as Jewish because of fears of antisemitism, 13% have felt uncomfortable or unsafe because of their Jewish identity, and six percent reported being told they could not take time off work for the Jewish holidays. 

Regularly connect with Jewish employees and seek their opinions and recommendations to create a culture of inclusion and respond to antisemitism. As with others raising concerns about bias, treat Jewish individuals alleging anti-Jewish bias with respect, take their complaints seriously, and investigate and take corrective action as appropriate. Support Jewish employees by promoting employee resource groups, including one for Jewish staff.

Consult AJC as a resource | When an incident of antisemitism occurs within your company or there is a need to respond to an external antisemitic event, employers can reach out to AJC. AJC’s experts are trained to provide guidance when internal issues need addressing or external events demand response. To schedule a discussion, please contact [email protected].

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Strengthen education on Jews and antisemitism | Companies should hold trainings on antisemitism for their employees. These trainings and educational programs can also proactively address antisemitism by generating an improved understanding of Jewish history, identity, and heritage. To schedule a training with AJC on how to recognize antisemitism, raise awareness, and address it using various tools, contact [email protected]. AJC can also be consulted as a resource that Jewish or interfaith ERGs can turn to for content, training, and resources on antisemitism, Jewish history and diversity, and allyship. 

Include Jewish holidays and celebrations on company calendars | Acknowledge Jewish holidays and other important days and events to the Jewish community, such as Holocaust Remembrance Day (January 27) and Jewish American Heritage Month which occurs every May. Invite Jewish employees to share their stories in the same way other groups are invited to do so. Accommodate Jewish religious beliefs, practices, and observances where reasonable and without an undue hardship. That is a legal duty. Bottom line: include Jewish employees in the rich mosaic of diversity.

Plan ahead | Have a plan to address antisemitism, specifically when Jews are attacked or face discrimination, such as a double standard, because of their perceived power. Antisemitism often increases during elections and political incidents, Jewish holidays, and flare-ups of issues in the Middle East. Since the Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, antisemitic incidents have risen roughly 400% in the U.S, and similar trends are found around the world.

Be aware of these patterns and prepare to provide additional support for Jewish employees, if necessary. Employers should respond quickly and firmly to any and all forms of antisemitic attacks.

Create clear policies and practices on discrimination and harassment | As more companies engage in social justice issues, they need a firm policy that elucidates the company’s zero tolerance stance toward antisemitism. When providing examples of harassment in company policy and training, also include obvious and more subtle examples of anti-Jewish harassment. When providing training on conscious and implicit bias, include examples involving Jews. Such actions not only will help minimize legal exposure but will help assure Jewish employees that their workplace is a safe space to express their full identity and that anti-Jewish bias has no place in the company.

Refine hiring practices | Evaluate applicants to favor cooperative competency. Companies should favor those applicants who can display a respect for the diversity of ideas, an ability to engage in respectful ways during disagreements, and a basic grasp on communications literacy.

Promote allyship | Even before instances of antisemitism occur, provide support to Jewish colleagues in a similar way as other minority groups. While external and internal statements against antisemitism are critical, substantive prevention happens through ongoing conversations and maintained relationships. Once this foundation is set, one can better understand how antisemitism is a harbinger for hate and discrimination of other groups.

According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 92% of U.S. adults believe “antisemitism affects society as a whole; everyone is responsible for combating it.” Interfaith and intergroup voices are critical. So are the words and actions of religious institutions, including churches, mosques, temples, and other places of worship that support the practice of religious beliefs. 

Particularly now, as antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the horrific attacks on October 7, 2023 – and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel – the American Jewish community cannot fight antisemitism alone. It requires leaders and people of goodwill, from religious, ethnic, and racial communities across the ideological spectrum, to join in the fight. Non-Jewish voices need to raise awareness that antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem but an assault on the core values of pluralism, freedom, and democracy that Americans hold dear. 

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Recognize antisemitic tropes, stereotypes, and terms | AJC created Translate Hate, a visual glossary to help identify different sources of antisemitism and expose antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight. Part of being a strong ally is constant education. Translate Hate is a useful tool for new and longtime allies of the Jewish community. In fact, it inspired AJC’s Chinese-American partners, the C100, to make their own glossary of anti-Asian hate words, language, and tropes. For more information on how antisemitism has changed over time and what it looks like today, refer to AJC’s short, animated film called “What is antisemitism?”.

Learn more about Jewish people | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, over one in three (37%) U.S. adults do not know someone who is Jewish. The same report reveals that when someone knows a Jew, they are far more likely to understand antisemitism. It is important for intergroup and interfaith partners to learn about who Jews are, in the same way it is important for the Jewish community to learn about other minorities. 

Many people think Jews are just a religious group, yet Jews reflect diverse racial, ethnic, and national backgrounds and express their identity in a variety of religious and cultural ways. The majority practice Judaism, or at least are culturally associated with Jewish traditions, but others are not. Many Jews are secular or atheist, but they are still Jews. Refer to AJC’s short, animated film called “Who are Jews?” to better understand Jewish history and identity. 

Understand the Jewish connection to Israel | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Many American Jews feel a historical, religious, or cultural connection to Israel, regardless of politics. Judaism as a religion is integrally tied to the land, to the city of Jerusalem, and other holy sites. From ancient times, Jewish history centered around the land of Israel, and Jews have lived continuously in the area. 

Coming out of two millennia of persecution, not least the Holocaust, many Jews see Israel as the only place where they can live free from fear and persecution. Hamas’ brutal attacks against Israel on October 7, 2023, the most deadly against the Jewish people since the Holocaust, have reopened deep wounds for many in the Jewish community. Leaders in civil society should be sensitive to these concerns, which are exacerbated by surging global antisemitism and often guised in the language of criticism of Israel. 

Targeting Jews, Jewish institutions or their houses of worship because of their connection to or support of the Jewish state is a form of antisemitism. When Jews face double standards, like being asked for their position on the Israel-Palestinian conflict before being included in social movements or political groups when no other ethnic or religious group is asked about their connections to another country, that can be antisemitism.  

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Issue unequivocal condemnations | One of the most impactful ways partners can help respond to antisemitism is to use their collective voice to raise awareness and show allyship through public statements or social media messages after an incident occurs. Normalization occurs when antisemitism is ignored, downplayed, or diluted, and it can happen when those in a position of influence or authority fail to name and condemn antisemitism. Influential figures have a critical role to play in responding to antisemitic incidents and setting a positive “tone from the top,” that makes clear that antisemitism is not tolerated. Condemnation can take many forms, including public statements. Such statements of condemnation should come immediately after an incident and should: 

• Specifically name and condemn antisemitism when it occurs, even while acknowledging the rights to free speech and the possibility of growth and change on the part of offenders.
• Counter toxic stereotypes and false narratives. Many minorities feel misrepresented in the media or society. This commonality can deepen sensitivities and cement bonds.  
• Offer pathways forward, including resources for victims, that can help the community heal while also proactively addressing antisemitism by generating improved understanding about Jewish history, identity, and heritage. 

Support partners in need | AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report found that 92% of Americans believe antisemitism affects society as a whole, and yet, in many instances, Jews feel as though hatred of them is ignored, discounted, or not taken as seriously as other forms of hate and bigotry. Condemnations of incidents are important, but so are messages of solidarity to let Jews know that they are not alone. When an antisemitic attack occurs, public messages of solidarity and support from partners are deeply appreciated. Partners speaking out loudly and clearly does not only engender goodwill toward the Jewish community, but it also raises vital awareness of hate in America more broadly. Those who hate Jews are likely to hate other minority groups and pose a threat to our democracy. This also applies to online antisemitism where non-Jewish voices calling out blatant or subtle hate can prevent dissemination and highlight dangerous trends.

Be alert to antisemitism within trusted spaces | Leaders of religious, ethnic, and racial groups should avoid coalitions that exclude Jews, deny the right of Jews to self-determination in their ancestral homeland, or demonize the Jewish state. Anti-Israel statements and actions are not always, but can be a form of antisemitism, and partners should have a nuanced and balanced understanding of the State of Israel and the people who live there. For a fuller picture of the various forms of antisemitism, please consider the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, which is a consensus definition used by over 1,000 entities and institutions globally, for use as an educational tool. 

It is essential for Jews and others to acknowledge that criticism of Israel or the actions of Jewish individuals or groups is not on its face antisemitic, but to also note that there are times when the issue of Israel is weaponized against Jews – all must be intentional and informed about when and how we identify antisemitism. No state, institution or individual is beyond criticism, but when rhetoric crosses the line or targets something simply because it is Jewish, then people of good will must speak out.

Increase awareness and reporting of hate crimes | Many communities lack understanding about the threat posed by the underreporting of hate crimes, why it occurs, and the impact. The FBI’s 2022 Hate Crimes Statistics report highlights gross underreporting of hate crimes in cities across the U.S., including dozens of cities with 100,000 or more residents. If we do not understand the extent of the problem, effective solutions will continue to evade us. Leading a conversation about efforts to improve hate incident reporting, increase trust, and raise awareness about what constitutes a hate crime can bring vigilance and action. Because of a diverse coalition of support, important legislation like the Jabara-Heyer NO HATE Act, which incentivizes local law enforcement agencies to report hate crimes, was passed by Congress and signed into law. Diverse coalitions can engage in joint advocacy to motivate local law enforcement agencies to report hate crimes or help push Congress to appropriate at least $15 million in funds to help improve reporting of and response to hate crimes, and to stand up hate crime prevention initiatives such as hate crime hotlines. 

Acknowledge that antisemitism is not just a problem for Jews | When an antisemitic incident occurs, voices beyond the Jewish community need to raise awareness that antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem but an assault on the core values of pluralism, freedom, and democracy that Americans hold dear. In this video, “Where There’s Hope,” American Jews and allies of the Jewish community reflect on the importance of everyone taking a stand against anti-Jewish hate, noting that “if it happens to one of us, it happens to all of us.” 

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Raise awareness | Civil society is one of the most important factors in lowering the levels of antisemitism in the U.S. Non-Jewish voices have a unique ability to be heard when explaining what antisemitism is and why it is a societal problem. We are more likely to accept information when it comes from someone we know and trust. Further, if civil society, including faith and ethnic leaders, decries all forms of antisemitism, does not ignore, or minimize it, and pushes antisemites to the fringes of society, America will be a safer place not only for Jews, but for everyone. 

Build personal connections | We must work to prevent antisemitism by rebuilding relationships and strengthening trust between all groups. AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report found that 82% of those who know someone Jewish say they have heard the term “antisemitism” and know what it means, compared with 48% who do not know someone who is Jewish. 79% who know someone who is Jewish say antisemitism is a problem in the U.S. today, compared with 64% who do not know anyone Jewish. And 62% of those who know someone who is Jewish, compared to 44% who do not, say antisemitism in the U.S. has increased over the past five years. Regular and sustained engagement is essential to build a foundation of goodwill. The following recommendations can help build personal relationships:

• Visit a synagogue and invite Jews to visit and speak at your house of worship. Attending a service or touring a house of worship helps understand a religious community’s ritual and practice in a practical, tangible way. 
• Learn about each other. Leaders should not assume that there is universal knowledge and understanding of other communities. Teaching the basic “anatomy” of partners (e.g., titles of religious leaders, respectful protocol) can be helpful. Resources like AJC’s Short Guide to Jewish Religion and Culture can be useful. 
• Facilitate reciprocal training opportunities. Jews and Jewish organizations should offer or connect partners with trainings, tools, and best practices to help them understand how Jew-hatred, scapegoating, and conspiracies are part and parcel of other forms of hate and prejudice. We all need to be open to learning about other communities’ sensitivities and experiences with hate, discrimination, and bias. 
• Partner with AJC to plan trainings on how to recognize antisemitism, raise awareness, and address it using a variety of tools. AJC has planned similar trainings for elected officials, corporations, sports teams, higher education institutions, and nonprofits. To schedule a training, contact [email protected].

Celebrate each other’s cultures | Proactively reach out to partners to acknowledge important dates, holidays, and anniversaries for their community. Be especially mindful of events that reinforce your communities’ ties with the partners you are reaching out to. Each May marks Jewish American Heritage Month, which, by broadening appreciation of Jewish American heritage, serves as a mechanism to counter antisemitism. Partners can help the Jewish community celebrate this month, and Jews should seek to engage with faith partners within diverse communities during Hispanic Heritage Month, Black History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and so on.

Seek opportunities for joint advocacy | AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report found that the vast majority of American Jews (94%) and U.S. adults (92%) say it is important for Jewish communities and other religious and ethnic communities to increase cooperation with each other. 

Joint advocacy strengthens bonds of partnership.

• Organize political empowerment workshops. Share best practices employed by various communities, from political advocacy efforts of diaspora communities, to how to be an effective advocate in the U.S., and the benefits of building strong coalitions. 
• Issue statements of support for each community if an incident arises at either the national or local level. Consider the power of joint statements in sending a stronger message and reaching a broader audience. 
• Conduct joint meetings and/or send joint letters. Leverage coalitions in letters to elected officials. An example is an appeal to the mayor’s office to designate a point person to address hate crimes. 
• Collaborate in outreach to state/local government. With State legislatures and City Councils, engage existing caucuses (Jewish Caucus, Latino Caucus, etc.) by hosting briefings or events that may also bring in partners. Similarly, consider supporting the establishment or work of coalition-inspired caucuses (Black-Jewish, Latino-Jewish, etc.).

Include Jews in ethnic studies curricula | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 72% of Americans believe that Jewish studies should be included by state and local governments in ethnic studies and/or history curricula in public schools. When coalition partners voice that Jews, Jewish history and contribution to America, Jewish diversity, and contemporary antisemitism are important, those in power are more likely to listen. Racism, antisemitism, and discrimination are an important part of our history, and our children should learn from our mistakes as we continue to strive to be a more perfect union.

Promote security to protect minority communities | The Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program provides funds to train staff and harden physical security to protect minority affiliated institutions and houses of worship. Helping to raise awareness of these grants and promoting participation among all eligible groups helps prevent violence not just against Jews and Jewish institutions, but against all faith and ethnic groups.

Anti-Jewish prejudice and incidents are a growing concern on both U.S. college campuses and at an increasing number of secondary schools. According to AJC's State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, for American Jews with current or recent college experience, 25% say they have avoided wearing or carrying things that identify them as Jewish, and 24% say they have felt uncomfortable or unsafe at a campus event because they are Jewish. 

Educational institutions have the responsibility to protect students, staff, and faculty from antisemitism, harassment, and hostile campus and school environments that are the results of real or perceived Jewish and/or pro-Israel identities. Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act protects people from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance, including from the U.S. Department of Education. The law protects Jews from antisemitic harassment or other forms of discrimination, including those based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics. 

In addition to meeting pressing immediate needs of Jewish campus citizens, real change requires a sustained commitment by educational institutions to improving the learning and living environment for everyone, including Jewish community members.

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done. Recommendations that are specific to secondary schools are indicated as such.

For useful action plans that provide even more focused recommendations about immediate, near-term, and long-term action steps to respond to antisemitism and improve campus atmosphere, AJC has created toolkits for university administrators, for public school administrators, and for independent school administrators. 

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Ensure students have access to antisemitism resources and education | AJC’s Translate Hate, an online and in-print glossary, is a powerful, visual educational tool for students to identify antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight. Public libraries in cities around the country have begun offering copies as a resource for readers; educational institutions can also use this model. In addition, it is important for students to understand Jewish peoplehood and that antisemitism is much more than a religious bias. 

Since antisemitism is not well understood by many Americans, education on antisemitism is crucial to fostering an environment with zero tolerance for anti-Jewish hate. It is also crucial for reassuring Jewish families in the school community that the school sees them in this moment and is prioritizing their safety and well-being. Organize educational programs on antisemitism for the school community, as well as age-appropriate student programming for primary and secondary schools. In addition to Translate Hate, AJC’s short, animated films on “Who are Jews?” and “What is antisemitism?” can also help educate.

Use the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism as a resource | Reporting antisemitism, offering trainings and educational programs, and creating committees to combat the problem should all be rooted in a foundational understanding of what antisemitism is. Put simply, we cannot address something we cannot define. The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism is a clear and concise description of antisemitism in its various forms, including conspiracy theories, Holocaust denial and distortion, prejudices against Jews, and the rejection of Israel’s right to exist. Today, the IHRA Working Definition is the most widely adopted and used definition of antisemitism in the world, employed by over 100 entities, including over 40 governments. This definition is a non-binding educational tool for identifying and understanding antisemitism. It is expressly not intended to censor valid criticism of Israel. Educational institutions must make it clear that in identifying antisemitism, as with other forms of hatred and discrimination, there is no institutional restriction on protected speech. 

Recognize the difference between criticism of Israel and antisemitism | As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the horrific attacks on October 7, 2023 – and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel – educational institutions must be keenly aware of how antisemitism can be cloaked under the guise of criticism of Israel. Numerous examples demonstrate how anti-Israel statements and actions can become antisemitic, with potentially perilous repercussions. While calls for rape or violence against Jews are clear calls for incitement, it is crucial to understand how some ideas or statements can be perceived as threatening to the Jewish community. For example: 

• “From the River to the Sea” is a catch-all phrase that symbolizes Palestinian control over the entirety of Israel’s borders, from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea. This saying is often interpreted as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel. 
• “Globalize the Intifada” is a phrase used by pro-Palestinian activists that calls for aggressive resistance against Israel and those who support Israel. The most prominent expressions of intifada have been through violent terrorism, so this phrase is often understood by those saying and hearing it as encouraging indiscriminate violence against Israelis, Jews, and institutions supporting Israel.
• Similarly, “Zionism is Racism” implies that self-determination is a right for all people, except Jews. There is nothing inherent to Zionism that contradicts support for Palestinian self-determination. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Therefore, calling all Zionists racists or saying Zionists deserve to die is dangerous not only to Israelis, but towards the vast majority of American Jews.
• Finally, holding Israel to a different standard. Expecting Israel to refrain from defending itself against terror attacks, particularly those that occurred on October 7, 2023 – the most deadly attack against Jews since the Holocaust –  is a double standard that would not be expected of any other democratic country.

Convene mandatory training for school administration and faculty on discussing the Israel-Palestinian conflict and antisemitism | Implement mandatory antisemitism education programs for school administrators, teachers, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) professionals. Antisemitism shares commonalities with other forms of hate but also exhibits distinct manifestations. A comprehensive understanding of antisemitism among school leadership is vital for effectively addressing this issue. Similarly, offer training to faculty members on how to approach discussions related to the Israel-Palestinian conflict in the classroom that promote balanced and respectful dialogue. AJC’s content experts who specialize in educational spaces can provide these trainings. 

Include Jews and antisemitism in ethnic studies and DEI curricula | Increase understanding of antisemitism by explicitly naming it and including it as an essential element of your institution’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).

Programming in DEI spaces can and should productively address the distinctive histories of minority communities and the particular obstacles and hatreds they have faced, in ways that encourage an atmosphere of mutual respect, allyship, and dialogue. Jews have an important place in those conversations. General programs designed to combat racism and intolerance provide an important framework, especially for diverse and multicultural societies. However, if educational efforts to combat antisemitism are to succeed, special attention must be paid to the specificity of the problem. 

During orientation in high schools and on college campuses, students receive several mandatory trainings, including anti-harassment training and anti-racism training. Antisemitism is rarely included. And yet, one in five (20%) current or recent Jewish students reported feeling or being excluded from a group or event because they are Jewish—this is an 8 percentage point jump from one year ago (12% in 2022). Particularly on the heels of October 7, 2023, and these past months’ surge in antisemitism, educational institutions must begin to integrate antisemitism as a focus within DEI and in student trainings related to DEI, including first-year and transfer students’ orientations. 

As antisemitism presents itself in unique forms, teachers should be trained both to teach about the topic accurately and to be alert to its presence in the classroom. Anti-Israel animus can be a form of antisemitism, and students should have a nuanced and balanced understanding of the State of Israel and the people who live there. 

Secondary schools should consider introducing a dedicated unit on the Israel-Palestinian conflict to the appropriate history course, which presents multiple narratives and nuanced perspectives about the history and present-day situation. Such a unit would help prepare students for campus life and adulthood by giving them an academic grounding in the conflict and teaching them how to examine complex issues with integrity and empathy and interpret source material responsibly. Also consider integrating elements of Jewish history into history/social studies scope and sequence, including Jewish indigeneity to Israel in ancient history, Jewish life in Europe before the Holocaust, and the origins, development, and contributions of the American Jewish community. Please reach out to [email protected] for guidance.

Additionally, as states consider ethnic studies curricula and other curricular content that addresses diversity and combating intolerance, lessons should include education about Jews, Judaism, Jewish history and Jewish contributions to America, Jewish diversity, and contemporary antisemitism. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 72% of Americans and 77% of American Jews believe that state and local governments should include Jewish studies within the ethnic studies or history curricula in public schools.

Promote faculty and staff participation in educational opportunities | Consider participating directly in educational opportunities and programming to learn more about the Jewish people, Israel and Zionism, and antisemitism. Reach out to learn more about AJC’s partnership with Hillel International and Hillel’s Campus Climate Initiative. Additionally, AJC has opportunities for administrators to travel to Israel via Project Interchange to learn about the complex realities of Israeli culture and geopolitics. 

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Prioritize physical security | Security concerns have risen in proportion to escalating threats of violence against Jews on campus in the months following October 7, 2023. It is the school’s responsibility to anticipate these security needs in Jewish cultural and religious spaces, for programming featuring Jewish and Israeli speakers, and in spaces where Jewish students and faculty routinely live and work and where they may be at risk. Ensuring the physical safety of Jewish students, faculty, and staff is a basic and necessary first step in creating an atmosphere where Jewish campus citizens can work and learn freely. 

In May, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona provided universities and colleges with concrete examples to use in the application of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Schools should familiarize themselves with this guidance to ensure prevention of a hostile learning environment. Some of the examples of when an investigation can be opened include blocking the entrance to a program about Israel, harassment of Jewish students, chants of "go back to Europe," or professors openly expressing anti-Zionism. 

On campus, we recommend coordinating with Jewish organizations, such as Hillel and Chabad, to address current security needs, and we encourage university leaders to enforce existing rules and codes of conduct and take appropriate action, up to and including expulsion and/or termination, for anyone who threatens physical harm to Jews. 

If your school requires additional security reinforcements, AJC can help by connecting you with the DOJ’s Community Relations Service. Further, as schools grapple with when to engage law enforcement and how, we urge not just careful consideration as to whether to grant “admission” to many schools, but active partnership with law enforcement to ensure appropriate response. The Department of Homeland Security offers guidance for campus law enforcement and public safety to protect against targeted violence like that which is being seen against Jewish students at anti-Israel demonstrations. 

Condemn unequivocally | It is essential that university and secondary school administrations issue clear and unwavering statements condemning antisemitism when incidents occur if they regularly issue statements on external events. Normalization occurs when antisemitism is ignored, downplayed, or diluted and when authority figures fail to specifically name and condemn antisemitism. These statements should specifically name antisemitism and avoid performatively adding reference to other forms of hatred and bigotry. Such language diminishes the seriousness with which fighting antisemitism should be addressed. For two examples of strong responses to antisemitism, please see President Julio Frenk’s message to the University of Miami community and President Sian Leah Beilock's remarks to the Dartmouth University community. 

Have a clear policy about antisemitism | Using the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism as a guide, ensure clarity as to what is considered antisemitism on campus. In particular, it is critical to differentiate between legitimate criticism of the State of Israel and antisemitic rhetoric and exclusion measures. Institutions should be aware of the ramifications of campus initiatives and events that create a hostile environment for Jewish and pro-Israel students, such as inflammatory and violent rhetoric on “apartheid walls” or that “Zionism is white supremacy,” when the majority of Jews say Israel is important to what being Jewish means to them8, amongst other examples. It should be made clear that it is antisemitic to exclude Jewish students or groups from campus social justice spaces because of their support for Israel, particularly when no other ethnic or religious group is asked about their connections to another country.

Clarify and publicize the rules surrounding campus protests and be prepared to enforce them | Protecting free speech on campus means ensuring that no single voice prevents others from speaking freely, and that hecklers are not given a veto to disrupt scheduled events. Administrators play a vital role in assigning time, place, and manner restrictions on protests, and enforcing these regulations promptly when they aren’t respected.

Review and inform social media and disciplinary policies to make clear to all students the bounds of acceptable behavior for your school community. In addition to publicizing school policies surrounding social media postings by students and faculty, schools should also hold conversations about the appropriate and healthy use of social media.

Enhance and promote reporting | All universities and secondary schools should have a clear mechanism for students to report antisemitism and should be transparent about the measures taken in response to such reports. Antisemitism is significantly underreported in the United States, including in school settings. Jewish students often hesitate to report antisemitic incidents, as they may believe that their experiences are not “bad enough” compared to other forms of oppression faced by their peers. Antisemitism should be treated with the same seriousness as other forms of bigotry.

Internally, one option is designating an educator, administrator, or advisor as a point person or resource for students if they experience antisemitism in the school setting. Take care to ensure that the responsible adult is someone who students will feel comfortable speaking to about antisemitism. Another option is a portal on the school website or an independent website, such as EthicsPoint, through which members of a school or work community can anonymously report discrimination, harassment, or hate speech violations. Schools should clearly outline the process for reviewing and adjudicating antisemitic incidents each year. Schools should also provide transparency to any affected students about how incidents will be investigated and addressed.

Externally, when antisemitism occurs, it is necessary that it be reported, whether to local law enforcement, the FBI, the Department of Education, or social media companies. Underreporting by the Jewish community creates gaps in how law enforcement, government, and civil society understand the problem. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 79% of American Jews who reported being targeted by an antisemitic remark in person did not report it. One reason why many Jews do not report is that they believe nothing will change (resignation in fighting antisemitism) and/or it is not serious enough (normalization of antisemitism). 

Clarify and raise awareness around the university’s standards for educational programming | Clarification is critical to ensure that events like teach-ins and panel discussions meet basic educational criteria, such as those outlined in the AAUP’s guidelines on academic freedom. It is essential that programming bearing the university’s name offers expert-led opportunities to learn about complex topics, including Israel/Palestine, Zionism, and antisemitism. Ensure your campus community knows that programming that bears the university’s name must meet these standards, including a transparent relationship between the session’s stated title and its contents. Programming on antisemitism should be especially sensitive to these standards. It should never become a shell for anti-Zionist or antisemitic messaging without reference to the history or lived experience of anti-Jewish hate.

Be on guard against efforts that silence voices or diminish intellectual pluralism | Recognize the impact of political statements by departments and programs, and the chilling effect these have on inclusion and free speech. For undergraduates and graduate students, junior and adjunct faculty, an atmosphere of free academic inquiry and exchange crucially requires an environment free from bias, including political bias. Consider taking steps in line with the 1967 University of Chicago Kalven Report, and discourage departments and programs from issuing statements that signal that only certain perspectives or identities are welcome or free to express themselves.

Similarly, the anti-normalization/non-dialogue stance of Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movement groups prohibits working with “Zionist” organizations and individuals, which is the majority of Jewish organizations and Jews. Even Shabbat meals and Holocaust remembrance events have been boycotted because Hillel or another major Jewish organization is participating. This politicization and weaponization is not the right message to be sending to students. Unfortunately, anti-Zionist activity on campus has too often included antisemitic messaging, harassment, and even violence. While anti-Zionist beliefs can of course be allowed on campus, universities must be aware of the potential antisemitic effects on Jewish students.

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Connect directly with Jewish students | On campuses nationwide, Jewish and pro-Israel students have reported a sense of isolation, including at times from the administration, leading them to conclude that their concerns are not recognized. Jewish students need to know that their concerns are being heard and addressed. Work with AJC and campus organizations like Hillel and Chabad to engage with a diverse group of Jewish students to understand how situations like the October 2023 Hamas-Israel war and increased anti-Zionist/Israel rhetoric on campus is impacting their safety, sense of belonging, and overall experience on campus. 

Model and promote allyship | Demonstrate solidarity with Jewish students by:

• Modeling “tone at the top” attention and concern for Jewish students’ rights and needs together with those of other groups.
• Issuing clear unequivocal statements condemning antisemitic incidents when they occur.
• Showing up in person at Jewish student events and celebrations.
• Ensuring that cultural and religious sensitivity policies also include areas of concern for Jewish students and families. For example, not scheduling important programs on Jewish High Holidays, providing alternative food options for those who follow kosher dietary laws, and including schoolwide programming during Jewish American Heritage Month as a complement to other multicultural programming in the school or campus community.

Be prepared and proactive | Problems must be dealt with preemptively and in real-time, rather than responsively after-the-fact. An active peacekeeping approach to engaging with the student community ensures that administrators remain present and closely attuned to potentially harmful situations on the ground as they are happening and can respond before they spiral out of control.

There are days and events which are likely to trigger antisemitic incidents. Antisemitism spikes historically around three key areas: during elections, Jewish holidays, and when there is an uptick in violence in the Middle East. Since the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel, antisemitic incidents have risen roughly 400% in the U.S, and similar trends are found around the world.

Ensure accommodation of Judaism and Jewish culture and practice | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 25% of current or recent Jewish students reported they have been told they could not miss class for the Jewish holidays. Ensure accommodation of Jewish observances, including Shabbat, major Jewish holidays, as well as dietary requirements. These efforts will help Jewish students feel included on campus. 

Engage a cross-section of stakeholders to address campus antisemitism | Secondary schools and universities should create standing committees or task forces to combat antisemitism comprised of administrators, faculty, and Jewish students (as well as Jewish parents in secondary school spaces). Appoint members to a task force who are responsive to the concerns of the Jewish community, and committed to addressing the actual spaces where campus antisemitism is manifesting now, including anti-Zionist spaces. 

Such committees or task forces should not only address incidents of antisemitism as they arise but should also work proactively to prevent antisemitism by fostering an inclusive environment for Jewish students through education and the review and adoption of policies that ensure processes are standardized, effective, and implemented. Task forces can even develop campus-wide guides to address antisemitism, such as this one developed by university faculty and administration at American University, and inclusive of voices of Jewish citizens of campus as well as resources from Hillel, AJC, and other organizations. Ensure that there are clear timelines for review and implementation of task force recommendations and action steps, where appropriate. When plans come from within the school, they can be much more effective than a plan being developed by someone else outside the school.

In secondary schools in particular, it’s most critical to engage with parents and community leaders, and support student and parent Jewish affinity groups. 

• Schools can convene and support student and parent Jewish affinity groups to provide a platform for open dialogue and mutual support. Reach out to Jewish affinity groups to check in on their well-being. Attend and encourage other administrators to participate in programming organized by Jewish affinity groups to express solidarity and better understand the needs and concerns of the Jewish community. 
• Schools may wish to convene your Parent Teacher Association to discuss antisemitism and consider encouraging Jewish parent affinity groups to provide a platform for open dialogue and mutual support. Attend and encourage other administrators to participate in programming organized by local synagogues or Jewish community groups to express solidarity and better understand the needs and concerns of the Jewish community.

Foster relationship-building programs | Universities are encouraged to create programs that build relationships among diverse student religious and cultural groups. Elevate the voices of Jewish, Muslim, Israeli, Arab, and Palestinian students, faculty, and community members who are actively pursuing sustained dialogue, and mutual understanding. Often, quieter and less extreme voices have little visibility on campus compared to those who actively seek attention through inflammatory rhetoric. Find ways to include voices that seek to engage in constructive dialogue and support their efforts.

Interfaith and intergroup specialists, including chaplains, can create pathways towards engaging together on challenging topics. Create forums for students to engage in ways that move conversations toward cultivating empathy and building bridges that support living together in community.

Review best practices from other universities, including ideas outside the United States | In the past decade, universities overseas, especially in Europe, have faced issues of sustained antisemitism before campuses in the United States. While the U.S. education system is markedly different, there are still best practices that can be utilized from universities around the world. For example, the Parliamentary Taskforce on Antisemitism in Higher Education in the United Kingdom published a critical resource called Understanding Jewish Experience in Higher Education, which provides many recommendations applicable for U.S. colleges and universities, especially since antisemitism is a global problem.

Support varied academic perspectives and commit to disrupting anti-Zionist echo chambers on campus | Students taking classes on Jewish history, Zionism, Israel-Palestine, and related topics should be exposed to multiple perspectives. Often Jewish, Israeli, and Zionist voices are not included in these conversations. On some university campuses where diversity of every other kind is welcomed, Jewish American and Israeli American students are finding it increasingly difficult to be fully themselves, noting frequent litmus tests governing their inclusion. Recent data reveals that 26% of Jewish students have avoided expressing views on Israel on campus or with classmates out of fear of antisemitism. Students have shared their growing concerns for their grades being lowered for supporting Israel’s existence or not being able to wear Israel-related clothing to some classes given the anti-Israel positions of the professor. It is critical to foster intellectual diversity in academic programs and departments. Universities have a vital role to play in ensuring that multiple perspectives about Israel and Zionism are represented on campus to discuss the complex realities of the Middle East. 

Use professionalization as an opportunity to foster inclusive and pluralistic spaces | Professionalization is an opportunity for early career teachers and researchers to hone the skills required to cultivate critical thinking in their classrooms and foster truly inclusive and pluralistic educational and research spaces. Set a clear expectation for junior faculty, all but dissertation (ABD) PhD students, teaching assistants (TAs) or teaching fellows (TFs), and professional school instructors that leadership in the classroom requires creating space for critical dialogue and intellectual curiosity, and fostering the skills required for evidence-based argument, particularly on complex topics like Israel/Palestine. New research that is committed to understanding the historical sources of antisemitism and its relationship to other forms of extremism and hate is needed. Discourage instructional models that instrumentalize the classroom to promote partisan political opinions or showcase ideologically driven activism that shuts down critical inquiry.

Adopt innovative hiring practices | New hiring practices are needed to ensure viewpoint diversity in university departments, schools, and programs. Elected officials, including Members of Congress, have directly challenged schools that have failed to take action against intransigent antisemitism. University administrators should be prepared to challenge departments and programs that are resistant to fostering academic exchange that includes diverse, fact-based perspectives about Israel and Zionism, and that fail to take accusations of systemic antisemitism seriously. Relatedly, refine hiring practices for new faculty and staff. Evaluate applicants to favor cooperative competency. Colleges and universities should favor those applicants who can display a respect for the diversity of ideas, an ability to engage in respectful ways during disagreements, and a basic grasp on communications literacy.

Encourage media literacy | Research shows that misinformation and conspiracy theories, which spread through unscrupulous media outlets and on social media, have the potential to impact not only people’s beliefs but also their actions. Indeed, many perpetrators of recent physical attacks against Jews in America were shown to have been influenced by and contributed to the virulent antisemitic content on various social media platforms. As conspiracy theories take an ever-growing hold on social media, robust education on the importance of critical thinking and interrogation of sources for bias and untruths is critical.

Celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month | Create schoolwide and divisional programs and initiatives that acknowledge and celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) each May to promote awareness and appreciation of Jewish contributions to American society.

Strengthen and revisit Holocaust education | Holocaust education plays a critical role in understanding where unchecked antisemitism can lead. Whether or not Holocaust education is required in your state, ensure that Holocaust education is a mandatory, prominent, and well-integrated component of the curriculum, emphasizing the historical importance of this subject. Ensure that Holocaust education focuses deeply on Jewish physical, cultural, and spiritual resistance to Nazi oppression. A nationwide 2020 survey of Millennials and Gen Z on Holocaust knowledge conducted by the Claims Conference found a clear lack of awareness of key historical facts; 63% of respondents did not know that six million Jews were murdered during the Holocaust and 36% thought that “two million or fewer Jews” were killed. Because antisemitism did not end with the Holocaust, Holocaust education should include examples of contemporary antisemitism, using the lessons of the Holocaust to emphasize to students that it is incumbent on everyone to speak out against hatred both on and offline. According to AJC's State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, U.S. adults who know more about the Holocaust are more likely to likely to know what antisemitism is than those who know less (85% vs. 48%); more likely to say that it has increased in the past 5 years (53% vs. 39%); and more likely to say it is a serious problem in the United States (72% vs. 63%). Students, parents, and educators should review the laws around Holocaust education in their state. If the state does not mandate Holocaust education, call on local elected officials, school boards, and principals to include it in curriculum requirements, utilizing the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s educational materials. If the state does have Holocaust education curriculum guidelines, urge elected officials to conduct an audit of the efficacy of the Holocaust education provided.

Antisemitism has a deep impact on the lives of Jews in the United States around the world. 93% of American Jews say antisemitism is a problem in the U.S. today, and almost half (46%) of American Jews changed their behavior in at least one way in the past year out of fear of antisemitism. While the Jewish community cannot fight antisemitism alone – and should not be expected to do so – there are considerable actions that individual Jews, Jewish leaders, and their communities can take to raise awareness of the problem of antisemitism and engage policymakers and community leaders to counter its spread.

Particularly in the aftermath of October 7, 2023, following Hamas’ horrific attacks on Israel, the subsequent war in Israel, and the surging antisemitism across the globe, Jewish communities must be prepared for threats and incidents, and act intentionally to respond and prevent.

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Help members of the Jewish community explain antisemitism | Antisemitism can be difficult to explain because it is motivated by disparate ideologies and can take many forms, not just swastikas sprayed outside a synagogue, or graves desecrated at a Jewish cemetery, for example. Holocaust trivialization, denial, and distortion are an expression of antisemitism as well as holding all Jews accountable for the actions of the State of Israel. 

AJC’s Translate Hate glossary helps identify different sources of antisemitism and exposes antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight. AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report provides data about how American Jews perceive and experience antisemitism. 

AJC can partner with you by offering educational trainings on recognizing, responding to, and preventing antisemitism. These trainings will enable your congregation, membership, and/or partners to speak out when antisemitism and other forms of hate occur in your communities. To inquire, contact [email protected].

Ensure broad awareness of ties to Israel | According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Many American Jews feel a historical, religious, or cultural connection to Israel, regardless of politics. Judaism as a religion is integrally tied to the land, to the city of Jerusalem, and other holy sites. Jews have lived continuously in the region for thousands of years. Coming out of two millennia of persecution, not least the Holocaust, many Jews see Israel as the only place where they can live free from fear and persecution. The October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel, the most deadly against the Jewish people since the Holocaust, have reopened deep wounds for many in the Jewish community. 

Particularly in the aftermath of October 7, 2023, it is critical that American Jews be equipped and empowered to explain not only the Jewish connection to Israel, but also, when anti-Zionism crosses the line to outright antisemitism. While it is not antisemitic to criticize actions of the State of Israel, denying Jews’ right to national self-determination, calling for the elimination of Israel, solely focusing on Israel but no other country, and/or attributing to Jews actual or perceived wrongs by the Israeli government is antisemitism. 

Empower and equip young Jews | The resources in AJC’s evergrowing Campus Library can help Jewish students and parents be the best advocates for themselves and the Jewish people in the classroom and beyond. High school students can apply to participate in AJC’s Leaders for Tomorrow (LFT) education and advocacy program for teens that empowers young Jews to speak up for Israel and the Jewish people. LFT helps high school students develop a strong Jewish identity and trains them as advocates for Israel, and to be voices against antisemitism. Contact [email protected] for additional information.

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Encourage reporting | When antisemitism occurs, report it, whether to local law enforcement, the FBI, the Department of Education, or social media companies. Underreporting by the Jewish community creates gaps in how law enforcement, government, and civil society understand the problem. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 79% of American Jews who reported being targeted by an antisemitic remark in person did not report it. One reason why many Jews do not report is that they believe nothing will change (resignation in fighting antisemitism) and/or it is not serious enough (normalization of antisemitism). 

Contact local law enforcement to report suspicious activity, as well as the Secure Community Network (SCN), the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America. SCN’s Duty Desk, available 24/7/365 via [email protected] or by calling 844-SCN-DESK, is an invaluable service for helping local Jewish communities with law enforcement issues. Submit a tip to the FBI online at tips.fbi.gov or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324). 

It is also critical to report antisemitism online and on social media. 62% of American Jews experienced antisemitism online or on social media in the last 12 months, yet only 35% of them reported the incident to the social media platform. Don’t be silent when you see an instance of antisemitism or other forms of hatred on social media. Report it to the platform directly. For more instructions on how to report, see AJC’s resource on “Reporting Antisemitism.” 

Facilitate coordination with law enforcement | Rabbis and Jewish communal leaders can ask their mayors and/or local law enforcement to establish a liaison to serve as a central coordinator for relationships with the local Jewish community or interfaith associations to be a central point of contact on security needs. The Secure Community Network can also be an important partner here.

Work to improve hate crime reporting | Year after year, Jews are the largest target of all religiously motivated hate crimes, despite accounting for just 2% of the U.S. population according to the FBI’s 2022 Hate Crimes Statistics report. That report also highlights gross underreporting of hate crimes in cities across the U.S., including dozens of cities with 100,000 or more residents, significantly hindering our nation’s ability to effectively counter rising antisemitism and all forms of hate. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, over nine in 10 Americans, both Jewish and non-Jewish, say it is important that law enforcement be required to report hate crimes to a federal government database. Partner with AJC’s regional offices to engage with local governments and law enforcement and intensify efforts to improve state and national hate crime reporting. 

Inaccurate, incomplete, and simply absent hate crime data has stymied efforts to formulate effective responses. It is impossible to address hate crimes when we do not understand their extent. Vast gaps in reporting must be closed. 

Convene coalitions and urge response | Coalitions are crucial to responding to hate of any form. Because antisemitic incidents are irregularly reported by the media, do not assume that partners are aware of threats or attacks. Jewish communal organizations and synagogues can play a leading role as convenors of partners from local businesses, organizations, civil society leaders, interfaith and intergroup, and other stakeholders when antisemitism occurs to discuss a path forward. Urge partners to issue condemnations when appropriate. Strong statements of condemnation should come immediately and should:

• Specifically name and condemn antisemitism when it occurs, even in the larger context of free speech. 
• Offer pathways forward, including resources for victims, that can help the community heal while also proactively addressing antisemitism by generating an improved understanding of Jewish history, identity, and heritage. 
• Define antisemitism. Dozens of cities and municipalities across the country—as well as corporations, sports leagues, and universities— have embraced the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, to help determine when incidents may be deemed antisemitism. Referencing the illustrative examples included in the IHRA Working Definition can bolster condemnations.

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Build interfaith and intergroup connections | AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report found that nine in 10 Americans, both Jewish and non-Jewish, say that it is important for Jewish communities and other religious and ethnic communities to increase cooperation with each other.

• Identify potential allies | Your nearest AJC regional office can help you connect with exemplary cross-community partnerships, such as AJC’s Muslim-Jewish Advisory Council (MJAC) and Latino Jewish Leadership Council, and coalitions, such as AJC’s Hindu-Jewish coalitions, Black/Jewish coalitions, and Christian-Jewish coalitions. Rabbis can also consider tapping into local interfaith clergy councils that facilitate interfaith programming and fuel community activism. Connect Jewish youth groups with youth groups from a diverse range of religious communities to develop and incorporate multi-faith social activities, service events, and educational programming into their programs. 
• Improve education and empower allies | The importance of education in the fight against hatred cannot be overstated. For coalition partners, learning about Jewish history and the societal problem of antisemitism can help develop a deeper understanding of Jews, their values, their fears, and the need for non-Jewish bystanders to not stay quiet in the face of Jewish attacks. AJC has developed resources and can provide expert trainers to give partners and potential allies increased understanding and the tools and inspiration to speak up when they hear speech that is antisemitic or witness antisemitic discrimination. 
• Celebrate each other’s cultures and raise awareness of important holidays | Seek out opportunities to engage with partners within diverse communities during Hispanic Heritage Month, Black History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and so on; and ask them to help the Jewish community celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month. Jewish leaders also play an important role in proactively creating awareness of religious cultures, practices, and needed accommodations of religious observances. This is especially critical for ensuring that official calendars for public schools and elections consider the major holidays of religious groups of all faith communities. 

Improve security to protect minority communities | In Fiscal Year 2023, the Department of Homeland Security’s Nonprofit Security Grant Program will provide $305 million to train staff and protect minority-affiliated institutions and houses of worship. Raise awareness of these grants with eligible partners and urge participation. In addition, Jewish community members, particularly leaders in Jewish institutions and synagogues, should participate in security training to be prepared in case of an emergency. The Secure Community Network offers numerous training opportunities to ensure Jewish institutions are prepared for any potential threats or incidents. 

Depoliticize antisemitism | The Jewish community must not let the fight against antisemitism be used as a weapon in partisan politics. If elected officials politicize antisemitism, call it out– regardless of political party. When antisemitism is invoked injudiciously, we devalue its meaning and damage the fight. The Jewish community itself is not immune from this. When Jewish organizations or Jewish community leaders try to use the fight against antisemitism for political purposes, these actions are unhelpful at best and detract from real antisemitism at worst. 

Engage school leadership | Anti-Jewish prejudice and incidents are a growing concern on both U.S. college campuses and at an increasing number of secondary schools. According to AJC's State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, for American Jews with current or recent college experience, 25% say they have avoided wearing or carrying things that identify them as Jewish, and 24% say they have felt uncomfortable or unsafe at a campus event because they are Jewish. 

Educational institutions have the responsibility to protect students, staff, and faculty from antisemitism, harassment, and hostile campus and school environments that are the results of real or perceived Jewish and/or pro-Israel identities. Synagogues and organizations can bring together Jewish educators, teachers, and parents to meet with school administrators or superintendents to raise awareness of antisemitism and ensure that there are clear and transparent mechanisms for students to report hate incidents. AJC has myriad resources for students, parents, and schools. For more information, contact [email protected] or [email protected].

Plan for Jewish American Heritage Month | Plan for Jewish American Heritage Month, which occurs in May. Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity for all Americans to get to know and understand the diversity within the Jewish community. Being Jewish is not just about religion, but also a people, culture, and group that has contributed so much throughout our nation's history. At a moment when the American Jewish community is feeling excluded from and unwelcome in too many spaces, this month and this initiative are more important than ever. 

AJC offers many resources specifically designed to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month, including videos, podcasts, and information on Jewish contributions to our country. AJC can also help plan Jewish community events to recognize this month. Raising awareness of this important heritage month within the Jewish community is vital, as recent data shows only 24% of American Jews say they have heard anything about Jewish American Heritage Month.

Acknowledge International Holocaust Remembrance Day | Acknowledge International Holocaust Remembrance Day, designated by the United Nations to take place annually on January 27. Rabbis and Jewish communal leaders should issue public statements, encourage Holocaust education, and hold community events reaffirming the fundamental guiding lesson of the Holocaust: never again. AJC's State of Antisemitism in America 2022 Report found that U.S. adults who are more knowledgeable about the Holocaust have a greater awareness of the problem of antisemitism compared to those with less knowledge about the Holocaust: they are more likely to say antisemitism is a serious problem in the U.S. (72% vs 63%), to say antisemitism has increased over the past five years (53% vs 39%), and to have seen an antisemitic incident (41% vs 30%). 

Influencers, including those in popular culture such as athletes, gamers, and entertainers, have an increasingly invaluable role to play in the fight against antisemitism and hate. Many influencers count more followers on social media than there are Jewish people in the world. 

AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report sought to better understand the level of celebrity influence when it comes to modeling opposition to antisemitism. About a third of American adults (35%) say they are very (13%) or somewhat likely (22%) to share with friends or family a post made by a celebrity or influencer that speaks out against antisemitism. 

Influencers who share, portray, and present accurate information about Jews, Judaism, Israel, and the threat of antisemitism, can be powerful, especially in the current climate: 62% of American Jews have experienced antisemitism online or on social media and 30% have avoided posting content online that would reveal their Jewish identity. Influencers– a term not limited to social media influencers, but anyone with the power or authority to sway or affect people’s opinions and actions– have the greatest potential to help change the reality for Jewish and all users. 

Please note that the suggestions offered below are not exhaustive. There is always more that can be done.

UNDERSTANDING ANTISEMITISM

Know how to identify antisemitism, including contemporary terms and tropes | Antisemitism can be difficult to pinpoint because it is motivated by disparate ideologies. Antisemitism can take many forms, not just swastikas sprayed outside a synagogue, or graves desecrated at a Jewish cemetery, for example. Holocaust denial and distortion are an expression of antisemitism as well as the trivialization of the Holocaust.9 Casual references to Hitler and the Nazis, while not necessarily antisemitic, are almost always perceived by Jews as insensitive and inappropriate. Conspiracies of Jewish power and control continue to threaten the well-being of Jewish communities. AJC’s Translate Hate is a visual glossary which exposes antisemitic tropes, words, and symbols that often hide in plain sight. In print or online, Translate Hate can be used to explain why something is antisemitic. 

Recognize the difference between criticism of Israel and antisemitism | As antisemitism threatens the well-being of the Jewish community with renewed vigor after the horrific attacks on October 7, 2023 – and the subsequent war between Hamas and Israel – it is important to know how antisemitism can be cloaked under the guise of criticism of Israel. Numerous examples demonstrate how anti-Israel statements and actions can become antisemitic, with potentially perilous repercussions. Some ideas or statements can be perceived as threatening to the Jewish community. For example: 

• “From the River to the Sea” is a catch-all phrase that symbolizes Palestinian control over the entirety of Israel’s borders, from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea. This saying is often interpreted as a call for the elimination of the State of Israel. 
• “Globalize the Intifada” is a phrase used by pro-Palestinian activists that calls for aggressive resistance against Israel and those who support Israel. The most prominent expressions of intifada have been through violent terrorism, so this phrase is often understood by those saying and hearing it as encouraging indiscriminate violence against Israelis, Jews, and institutions supporting Israel.
• Similarly, “Zionism is Racism” implies that self-determination is a right for all people, except Jews. There is nothing inherent to Zionism that contradicts support for Palestinian self-determination. According to AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report, 80% of Jews say caring about Israel is an important part of how they think about their Jewish identities. Therefore, calling all Zionists racists or saying Zionists deserve to die is dangerous not only to Israelis, but towards the vast majority of American Jews.
• Using data from problematic sources, such as the Gaza Ministry of Health, which is run by the terrorist organization Hamas. When the media relies on data and figures from Hamas and quotes them as fact, they can be spreading misinformation, or even psychological warfare, with dangerous ramifications. In general, it is critical for the media to be aware of how the majority in the Jewish community perceive tough questions about what is happening in Gaza. 
• Finally, holding Israel to a different standard. Expecting Israel to refrain from defending itself against terror attacks, particularly those that occurred on October 7, 2023 – the most deadly attack against Jews since the Holocaust –  is a double standard that would not be expected of any other democratic country.

Listen to Jewish influencers | There are many Jewish influencers, from a wide variety of backgrounds, religious expressions, and places across the world, on various social media platforms. To understand the antisemitism they face online, outreach and support is critical. Sending a direct message or DM goes a long way.

Help others understand antisemitism | Because the first step to stopping antisemitism is to understand it, influencers can share critical, albeit digestible information with their followers. 30% of Americans are not familiar with the term antisemitism and influencers can help lower this percentage. Share AJC’s short, animated film called “What is antisemitism?” to understand what antisemitism is and how it has changed over time. Share also “Who are Jews?” to help Americans and all English-speakers better understand Jewish history and identity.  

RESPONDING TO ANTISEMITISM

Issue condemnations | AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2023 Report found that 92% of Americans believe antisemitism affects society as a whole, and yet, in many instances, Jews feel as though hatred of them is ignored, discounted, or not taken as seriously as other forms of hate and bigotry. Condemnations of incidents are important, but so are messages of solidarity to let Jews know that they are not alone. 

As with all hate crimes, when an incident occurs, influencers should speak out loudly and clearly using their broad reach, affirming that antisemitism is not just a Jewish problem but an assault on human values. They should work with leaders across various media companies, sports franchises and leagues, and entertainment conglomerates, to publicly condemn antisemitism when appropriate, as well as to create clear and enforceable policies on discrimination and harassment that include antisemitism. This action is especially needed because 35% of Americans reported they would share posts by celebrities or influencers speaking out against antisemitism with their friends or family. Unfortunately, it has become all too common to issue universal condemnations of hate that fail to mention the anti-Jewish character of the incident, or list antisemitism among a list of hateful “isms” when it was just the Jewish community targeted. Strong statements of condemnation should come immediately and should:

• Specifically name and condemn antisemitism when it occurs, even in the larger context of free speech. 
• Engage employees, artists, and talent when they spread hate and inaccurate information that endangers Jews. 
• Support entertainers who are victims of antisemitic abuse for publicly speaking about their Jewish identity. 
• Protect Jewish employees from harassment and retaliation for expressing their concerns about antisemitism in the entertainment industry.
• Counter discriminatory efforts to boycott Jewish and Israeli artists and cultural institutions.
• Offer pathways forward, including resources for victims, that can help the community heal while also proactively addressing antisemitism by generating an improved understanding of Jewish history, identity, and heritage. 
• Define antisemitism. Dozens of cities and municipalities across the country—as well as corporations, sports leagues, and universities— have embraced the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition, to help determine when incidents may be deemed antisemitism.

When influencers, including social media influencers, athletes, actors, artists, musicians, and other celebrities, hold each other accountable, it helps push antisemitic rhetoric to the fringes where it belongs.

Collaborate with Jewish influencers | Collaborate with Jewish influencers to share resources when antisemitism occurs. Amplify the voices of trusted, nuanced Jewish content providers and organizations, ensuring they represent the mainstream opinions of Jews. If you see that your Jewish influencer friend is facing antisemitism online, offer to collaborate on educational posts and content to help spread awareness and helpful information against antisemitism. You can also reach out to organizations like AJC to collaborate on posts and projects to help raise awareness against anti-Jewish hate. 

Identify, report, and share the knowledge | Report antisemitic comments or DMs across platforms, and screenshot to document them. If found on Instagram, consider sharing the hateful comment to your story to identify it as antisemitism for your followers and ask for their support in reporting the comment. However, it is important to guard against visual displays of hate. Consider whether blurring hateful symbols and words can prevent the dissemination of hate, or whether sharing the images within an educational context can show the impact it has on the Jewish community. Context is critical. Antisemites often seek public attention, and no one wants to inadvertently feed that desire. 

Utilize AJC’s Translate Hate glossary to determine if something is antisemitic and share the link with followers along with the hateful comment. Remind followers that hate towards Jews does not end with Jews, that hate against one group impacts all of society, and that we cannot sit by silently and allow society to normalize hatred. As an influencer, your following allows you to be an educator and role model, which should not be understated. 

PREVENTING ANTISEMITISM

Partner with AJC to plan trainings | The U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism called on Experts on antisemitism and communications to hold briefings for influencers and work with them individually to develop educational content, including content for social media. Trainings ensure that company-wide initiatives – such as programs, campaigns, and/or other efforts - incorporate Jewish concerns. AJC has trained numerous elected officials, law enforcement, corporations, sports teams, higher education institutions, and nonprofits to help them recognize antisemitism, raise awareness, and address it using a variety of tools. To schedule a personal training, or a training for a group of peers, contact [email protected].

Share accurate information | Unfortunately, it has become too common for celebrities and influencers to use their influential platforms to spread antisemitic conspiracy theories, deny or distort the Holocaust or the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel, or elevate antisemitic voices and other dangerous points of view. Things you can do include: 

• Refrain from promoting Jewish tropes that endanger the Jewish community.
• Encourage the adoption and implementation of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism and publicize this non-legally binding action as a step in the fight against antisemitism. 
• Amplify and fund organizations leading Holocaust and antisemitism education. 

Before sharing material, think about the impact on the Jewish community: “How will Jews in the United States and around the world perceive what I am sharing?” “Might my post give fodder to antisemites, including far-right white supremacists, who are also avowedly anti-Zionist?” “Is what I am sharing misinformation that could, even unintentionally, lead to Jewish people being harmed?” Asking these questions before sharing content is paramount. 

Be alert to antisemitism within trusted spaces | Influencers should avoid collaborations or coalitions that exclude Jews, deny the right of Jews to self-determination in their ancestral homeland, or demonize the Jewish state. Invite non-Jewish allies in the entertainment industry to stand in solidarity with the Jewish community and call out antisemitism. Educating peers within the entertainment industry about ALL forms of antisemitism is crucial. Anti-Israel statements and actions are not always, but can be a form of antisemitism, and partners should have a nuanced and balanced understanding of the State of Israel and the people who live there. Review your or your platform’s association with, and potential sponsorship or remuneration of, individuals and entities that advance antisemitism. This might include reconsideration of a brand association, halting patronage, or “unfollowing” an account. 

Display and celebrate allyship | Share not only about antisemitism, but also about Jewish pride and culture, history and identity, such as messages of well wishes on Jewish holidays and Jewish American Heritage Month, which occurs in May. This can be done through producing movies, shows, programs and lyrics that accurately portray Jewish themes and the rich diversity of the Jewish community. Advertisements about antisemitism and intolerance can be displayed alongside these movies, shows, programs and lyrics. Encourage fellow actors, athletes, writers, producers, and peers, to perpetuate positive messaging about Jews, the Jewish community, and Israel. When we humanize others and can relate to them, it becomes far more difficult for hate to spread. Your ability to help others understand who Jews are may be a helpful tool in preventing antisemitism from becoming reality. By creating, sharing, and collaborating on diverse content, we can promote understanding rather than hatred of the unknown on social media.

A pledge of what leaders in the entertainment and music industry can do to combat antisemitism and support the implementation of actions can be found here. 

Celebrate the positive | So much of online discourse around Jews can be hyper focused on antisemitism and the Israel-Gaza conflict. But there is so much more to being Jewish than antisemitism or political conflicts. Consider partnering with your Jewish influencer friends on content that highlights the fun and exciting parts of Judaism including (but not limited to) the Jewish holidays, traditions like giving charity, and the Jewish idea of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world.