Wisconsin lawmakers are pushing to formally adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, reinforcing America’s stand against Jew-hatred and recognizing that attacks on Israel often mask dangerous antisemitism.
Wisconsin is taking a decisive step in the fight against Jew-hatred. Lawmakers in Madison are currently deliberating a resolution that would enshrine the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism into state law, JNS reported Tuesday.
If passed, the legislation would require state and local government bodies to apply the IHRA definition when addressing discrimination cases and determining disciplinary action.
The move comes amid an alarming global surge in antisemitic rhetoric and attacks. In a powerful letter, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation warned:
“In the last 18 months, the world has witnessed a disturbing and unprecedented surge in antisemitic rhetoric, violence and harassment.”
The JCRC praised the IHRA definition as “a vital tool” to combat this growing threat.
What the IHRA Definition Covers
- Hatred and discrimination against Jews.
- Holocaust denial and distortion.
- Antisemitism disguised as “criticism of Israel,” when it crosses the line into delegitimization and demonization.
Should Wisconsin adopt the measure, it would join 37 US states plus Washington, D.C., which have already embraced IHRA. Internationally, democracies such as Canada, Germany, Britain, Austria, Romania, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria have done the same.
In 2017, even the European Parliament urged all EU member states to adopt and apply IHRA’s standard, underscoring its global recognition.
Why It Matters for Israel and the Jewish People
The IHRA definition draws a bright line between legitimate political debate and antisemitic incitement, especially in the context of Israel. By adopting it, Wisconsin sends a clear message: Jew-hatred — whether in the streets, online, or disguised as anti-Zionism — has no place in America.
