Missouri HB2061 would codify the global standard working definition of antisemitism (IHRA) into statute (joining 37 other states) PLUS require public schools & universities to report antisemitic incidents & complaints to the state under Title VI, the same procedure as any other bias listed in the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Nine out of ten American Jews say they feel less safe as a Jew in the United States in the past year, according to a recent survey by the American Jewish Committee.  More than half have changed their behavior in 2025 out of fear of antisemitism.

It is worse for Jewish students.

They avoid displaying their Jewish identity and nearly half of American Jewish college students have experienced antisemitism on campus in 2025.  This is unacceptable.

Our kids deserve to go to school safely, like any other, without being bullied just for being Jewish.  Or to be held responsible for Middle East government policy decisions they have no part in.

• The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) defines antisemitism as “a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews,” including rhetorical and physical manifestations directed at Jewish/non-Jewish individuals, their property, or community institutions.

• IHRA has been used consistently as the global working definition standard since 2005 to the present –  in every consecutive U.S. State Dept. beginning with the administration of President George W. Bush.

• Adopted by 37 states, 44 countries and 100+ municipalities (to date), this non-legally binding working definition includes 11 contemporary examples, such as denying the Holocaust or Israel’s right to exist.

• IHRA recognizes both classic and modern forms of antisemitism, which often presents itself through conspiracy theories, collective blame, and the unique denial of Jewish self-determination.

• Universally, nationally and even at the local municipal level, IHRA has faced NO credible legal challenge or dissent —-until October 7, 2023. 

• The St. Louis County Council adopted IHRA unanimously in 2022 – without pushback. They and Kansas City MO are among the 100+ municipalities to formally use IHRA, including Chicago IL and Parkland, FL, the most recent cities to implement the global standard definition.

No.  A thousand times NO.

IHRA under Missouri HB2061 specifically states that it does not conflict with the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The working definition of IHRA deals with actions and conduct, not speech.

You are still free to yell anti-Jew hate speech but one cannot intimidate, harass, block someone or instigate violence, which are actions. 

Wearing anti-Jew symbols or insignias such as swastikas, should be treated in the same manner as those which are considered racist, hateful or obscene, under the bias protections of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.

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