Democratic Mayoral Candidate Takes Stance on Anti-Semitism Definition

Zoran Mamdani, a Democratic candidate for mayor, recently announced that he would abandon the International Holocaust Memory Union’s definition of “anti-Semitism” if elected.

He expressed that his administration would align with the Biden administration’s approach to tackling anti-Semitism, focusing on education, community engagement, and accountability to reverse the normalization of such sentiments, while also advocating for open dialogue.

Mamdani has been vocal in his criticism of Israel, labeling it an apartheid state and endorsing the BDS movement. His position suggests that he views defining the existence of a Jewish state as potentially racist, which some argue could further perpetuate anti-Semitism, as recognized by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.

In a recent conversation with Bloomberg News, Mamdani emphasized his goal to dissociate his critiques of Israel and Zionism from accusations of anti-Semitism, stating, “I support BDS and non-violent methods for addressing violence linked to the Israeli state.”

His stance has drawn criticism. Rabbi Joseph Potanic, vice president of New York’s Ravis Committee, remarked that the BDS movement is a targeted attack on Israel, questioning Mamdani’s ability to condemn groups like Hamas.

“I genuinely worry about how he defines anti-Semitism,” Potanic said. “What does it take to be labeled as anti-Semitic in his perspective?”

Rory Lancman, a senior adviser at the Brandeis Center for Human Rights, highlighted the need for a clear definition, asserting that the IHRA definition is widely supported among U.S. and global Jewish organizations. He argued that any government dismissing this definition is not genuinely addressing anti-Semitism.

The Prevention League also argues that the BDS movement’s end goal, which they claim seeks to eliminate the only Jewish nation, is inherently anti-Semitic.

Todd Shapiro, speaking on behalf of Eric Adams’ campaign, criticized Mamdani’s “reckless rejection” of the IHRA’s definition, labeling it as dangerous and out of touch with New York values. He pointed out that this definition, adopted by the White House and embraced internationally, aims to protect Jewish New Yorkers from a growing tide of anti-Semitic incidents.

Shapiro further condemned Mamdani for his hesitance to denounce the term “globalization of intifadas,” which many within the Jewish community view as a call to violence. In July, Mamdani stated that he would not use this phrase.

The IHRA defines anti-Semitism as “a specific perception of Jews, which can manifest as hatred against Jews,” extending to acts targeting Jewish individuals and institutions as well.