Following three months spent fine-tuning a non-binding resolution that defines and reaffirms Montgomery County’s commitment to stand up to hate and against antisemitism, county councilmembers unanimously passed the statement on Nov. 1.
Councilmembers and county residents debating the resolution agreed it is important to take a strong stand against hatred and violence against any group. But opponents of the resolution said its incorporation of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism and its accompanying 11 amendments steps on free speech rights because it would have a chilling effect on criticism of Israel and its policies.
The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism has been adopted by 26 U.S. states. It defines antisemitism as “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 definition has been used to label as antisemitic speech that “demonizes” Israel, holds Israel up to a “double standard” and “delegitimizes” Israel.
