North Carolina has taken a major step forward on Wednesday in combating antisemitism by adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA)’s working definition into its state laws.

The IHRA’s working definition of antisemitism, which has been adopted by over 35 US states and 91 cities, as well as the US State Department, includes contemporary examples such as denying the Jewish people’s right to self-determination, comparing Israeli policies to those of the Nazis, and holding Jews collectively responsible for the actions of the State of Israel.

“With antisemitism having exploded worldwide post-Oct. 7, the IHRA definition remains a tool of paramount importance for helping identify and quell the mounting tide of antisemitism,” StandWithUs CEO Roz Rothstein wrote on X. “North Carolina’s moral clarity on this matter sets a clear example from which other states ought to draw inspiration as Jews around the world desperately seek assurances of their own safety.”

According to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), antisemitic incidents in North Carolina surged by 287% in 2023 compared to the previous year and 403% compared to 2021.

The ‘Shalom Act’, which passed the Senate during a second reading, now awaits the signature of Governor Roy Cooper. While Cooper has often expressed his support for North Carolina’s Jewish population, he has come under fire for criticizing Israel’s defensive war against Hamas.

“In Israel’s attempts to defend itself and to rid itself of Hamas, you’re seeing devastating consequences to civilians, women, and children,” Cooper said during a March interview with Technician. “There needs to be a two-state solution here. We need the Arab countries to come together.

While Cooper’s comments about Israel certainly raise concerns, analysts predict the North Carolina governor will sign it into law considered the overwhelming bipartisan support the Shalom Act received with 47 voting in favor and 2 against.

    Channah June 29, 2024 4:20 pm

    What cool aid is he on? There were 2 states. Gaza and Israel. But no… they want “ from the River to the sea! “. They want a “one state solution “. They refuse a two state solution because they want all of Israel. They want the “ final solution “. We’ve been there and done that. Arab Muslims , you don’t like Israel, go to Jordan( oh whoopsie.. King Hussein kicked you out in Black September.). They went to Christian Democratic Arab Lebanon and started a civil war to annihilate Christianity and Christian Arabs. They want a one state solution. Worldwide. Read the Iranian charter.
    They want a6th Caliphate ( the same concept as Nazi Third Reich universal takeover) which will also spread worldwide and destroy anyone not a Muslim Shiite. Don’t make Israel the fall guy for your ignorance and stupidity.

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