Concerns Arise Over Repeal of Anti-Semitism Definition

Jewish students in New York City are worried about Mayor Zoran Mamdani’s recent decision to repeal an executive order connecting the city’s definition of anti-Semitism to the standards established by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). This definition identifies anti-Semitism as “hatred against Jews.”

Students from New York University and Columbia University have voiced their alarm, calling the repeal “horrifying.” They fear that this action could incite protests on college campuses and promote more aggressive behavior among both students and faculty. Mela Skovro, a student at NYU, pointed out the significance of the IHRA definition in protecting the Jewish community, suggesting that the removal of such safeguards feels like a direct attack on their safety.

“It seems like a really direct move to remove these safeguards and precautions for Jewish students to keep us safe,” Skovro remarked. She further expressed her unease by stating, “It feels like an attack.”

The IHRA definition, which Mamdani rescinded on his first day in office, January 1, describes anti-Semitism as a perception of Jews that manifests as hatred against them, including both rhetorical and physical expressions aimed at individuals, property, or community organizations.

Columbia University has seen intense protests following the decision, especially after Hamas’s actions against Israel on October 7, 2023. The protests at NYU have been markedly violent, with some incidents leading to significant unrest, including one protest that prompted calls for an “intifada revolution.”

Students like Galia Labowitz from Columbia have commented on the pervasive pro-Palestinian rhetoric on their campus, noting that Mamdani’s decision may embolden activists. “Honestly, I’m scared of what’s going to happen this year,” she said, referencing the atmosphere in the classroom, where some professors even seemed to support the protests, complicating her ability to speak about her Jewish and Zionist identity.

In April 2024, protests continued at Columbia, significantly impacting campus life. Labowitz specifically cited professors who encouraged such rhetoric as problematic. She described an environment where some faculty canceled classes due to protests or urged students to join in, making her feel uncomfortable about expressing her beliefs.

The fallout from Mamdani’s decision has led to concerns of increased anti-Semitic rhetoric and a less safe environment for students identifying as Jewish. While attempts were made to contact Mamdani’s office as well as representatives from NYU and Columbia for comment, responses were not available before publication.