North Miami-Dade News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A group of bipartisan lawmakers, including Rep. María Elvira Salazar (R-FL), has introduced H.R. 6578, the Commission to Study Acts of Antisemitism in the United States Act. This legislation aims to establish a nonpartisan, nonpolitical commission that will delve into the facts and causes surrounding the alarming rise of antisemitism faced by the Jewish community in the country.

The surge in antisemitic rhetoric, threats, and violence towards the Jewish community since Hamas' invasion of Israel on October 7th, 2023, has raised concerns among lawmakers. FBI Director Christopher Wray has reported historically high levels of antisemitism in the United States, while the Anti-Defamation League has noted a 388% spike in antisemitic activity in response to the invasion.

Rep. Salazar, a leading member on U.S.-Israel policy, emphasized the need to address this issue, stating, "There is no room for antisemitic hatred in the United States. The federal government must respond to the unacceptable rise of antisemitism our Jewish communities face. This bill will give federal, state, and local officials the ability to zero in on the roots of this hatred and crush it."

The proposed commission will consist of eight members appointed by Congress, tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into antisemitism in the United States. Rep. Salazar, as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and representative for South Florida, has expressed deep concern about the growing antisemitism both domestically and internationally. She has also criticized global leaders who have espoused antisemitic tropes and conspiracies.

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA), one of the co-sponsors of the bill, highlighted the urgency of the situation, saying, "With the rise in antisemitic violence and brazen attacks on our Jewish communities in the United States, it is important, now more than ever, that we find the cause of these alarming acts of antisemitism and work to protect our communities and religious institutions."

Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) emphasized the need for a bipartisan and bicameral inquiry to combat the disturbing trend of antisemitism. She stated, "Before Oct. 7th, antisemitism was on a sharp rise, but now we've seen it skyrocket, especially online. This bipartisan, bicameral inquiry, which is supported by Jewish civil society leaders and experts, will complement the implementation of President Biden's first-ever National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism and inform key policy decisions in combatting this disturbing trend."

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), another co-sponsor of the legislation, expressed his grief and anger following the recent events, saying, "Since Hamas' heinous terrorist attack on Israel, there has been an explosion of antisemitism, violence, and intimidation at home and around the world — especially on our college campuses. We have an obligation to teach future generations about this evil and protect Jewish students from violence and the virulent impact of all hate."

Rep. Max Miller (R-OH) stressed the importance of taking strong action against antisemitism, stating, "Since the October 7th attacks on Israel, the world has seen a drastic increase in antisemitism that has brought fear to the lives of Jews across this country. We must do everything in our power to combat this hatred."

The bill has garnered support from several other lawmakers, including Reps. Lance Gooden (R-TX), Anthony D'Esposito (R-NY), Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), and many more.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) have also expressed their support for this legislation.

This bipartisan effort aims to confront the rise of antisemitism head-on and ensure the safety and well-being of Jewish communities across the United States. The proposed commission, if established, will play a crucial role in identifying the causes of this hatred and working towards effective solutions.

Click here to read the full text of the bill.

To learn more, click on this link: https://salazar.house.gov/media/press-releases/salazar-introduces-legislation-address-antisemitism-united-states