Combating Anti-Semitism

What it means

This order directs federal agencies to consider anti-Semitism as discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. It adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of anti-Semitism when investigating discrimination claims, particularly in educational settings receiving federal funding.

Expected impact

• Strengthened protections for Jewish students facing harassment or discrimination on college campuses
• Expanded legal framework for addressing anti-Semitic incidents by treating them as civil rights violations
• Potential legal challenges from civil liberties groups concerned about free speech implications, especially in academic contexts
• Greater scrutiny of campus activities or events critical of Israel that might be classified as anti-Semitic under the IHRA definition
• More consistent federal response to anti-Semitic incidents across different agencies and institutions