SE Texas Times

U.S. Representatives Randy Weber, Brian Fitzpatrick, Chris Smith, and Kathy Manning, along with Senators Jacky Rosen and James Lankford, have introduced the bipartisan Countering Antisemitism Act in an effort to combat the alarming rise of antisemitism in the United States. The legislation aims to address the surge in antisemitic attacks following the October 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel.

Congressman Randy Weber expressed his concern over the increasing antisemitism in the nation, stating, “As members of Congress, we cannot stand idly by and watch our Jewish community face relentless attacks on account of their faith. This reprehensible behavior has no place on American soil, and my colleagues and I refuse to tolerate it any longer.”

Senator Jacky Rosen emphasized the need for immediate action, saying, “My bipartisan legislation would establish a National Coordinator to Counter Antisemitism for the first time ever, and take other much-needed steps across the federal government to fight anti-Jewish hatred, bigotry, and violence in the United States.”

Senator James Lankford echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of protecting religious freedoms, stating, “Our Jewish friends and neighbors should not live in fear because of their faith and heritage, and this bill affirms the right to live their faith freely.”

The Countering Antisemitism Act includes provisions to establish a National Coordinator to Counter Antisemitism, conduct an annual analysis of online antisemitism, and require federal agencies to report on their implementation of strategies to counter antisemitism. Additionally, the bill designates May as “Jewish American Heritage Month” in federal law.

Various organizations and individuals have shown support for the legislation, with Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of ADL, commending the efforts to combat antisemitism, stating, “The U.S. government must pursue policies and create the necessary infrastructure to fight antisemitism today and well into the future.”

Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, expressed gratitude to the bipartisan efforts, acknowledging the urgent need to address the increasing threat of antisemitism, while William C. Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, praised the Act for strengthening federal efforts to combat antisemitism.

The Countering Antisemitism Act represents a comprehensive approach to tackling antisemitism in the United States, with lawmakers and organizations coming together to address the urgent need to protect Jewish communities and combat hatred.