Mayor Eric Adams has implemented the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s antisemitism definition across New York City agencies through an executive order signed at a Manhattan synagogue. Adams justified the decision by pointing to disproportionate hate crime rates affecting Jewish New Yorkers and what he described as the normalization of antisemitic rhetoric since October 7, 2023.
The definition includes examples that have generated significant controversy, particularly those relating to criticism of Israel’s policies and existence. Critics argue that these provisions could be used to silence legitimate political discourse, a concern that has been echoed by the definition’s original author who has warned against its misuse to suppress free speech rights.
With two weeks remaining before the Democratic primary, Adams’ policy decision comes as he faces strong opposition from candidates with vastly different perspectives on Middle East issues. While Andrew Cuomo has positioned himself as a stalwart supporter of Israel, even joining Netanyahu’s legal team, Zohran Mamdani has taken a progressive stance that includes calling for accountability regarding what he terms Israeli genocide in Gaza.
Adams Adopts Controversial Hate Definition Despite Backlash Warnings
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