Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) has introduced legislation to establish a formal definition of “antisemitism” within the New York State Education Department. This definition will serve as a guideline for reviewing, investigating and determining whether a violation of law, regulation or Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 has occurred.

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

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

“The first step in combating hate is defining it,” said Slater. “Having clear parameters in place will help determine when an act of antisemitism has occurred and ensure appropriate action is taken.”

A report by New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli published in August, 2024, highlighted a significant rise in hate crimes across the state. In 2023 alone, there were 1,089 reported incidents—an increase of 69% since 2019.

“Since the attack by Hamas on Israel is October of 2023, reported incidents of antisemitic hate have skyrocketed in our state. This is unacceptable, and this legislation is a crucial step toward stopping it,” Slater continued. “New York is a state that takes pride in its diversity, and I will work with my colleagues in the Legislature to ensure our families, friends, neighbors and communities feel safe here. I appreciate Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick for taking the initiative and pushing this important bill forward in the Senate.”

“We have seen far too many individuals not only push the limits, but cross the line far beyond what is acceptable with their antisemitic rhetoric and actions–and many of our institutions of higher learning have not taken the necessary steps to address this scourge,” said Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick (R,C-9th Senate District). “By defining antisemitism and establishing a clear standard, we can better ensure that colleges and universities are meeting their obligations to protect all of their students.”

Congressman Mike Lawler said, “I’m proud to have Assemblyman Slater as a partner in government. His work to protect Jewish communities in the Hudson Valley, including the introduction of legislation to force NYSED to use the IHRA definition of antisemitism, is commendable. I look forward to working with him for many years to come on this and other issues facing our shared constituents.”