This week, South Dakota adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Association (IHRA)’s working definition of antisemitism into its state laws.
“Ever since the horrific terrorist attacks on the State of Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, we have seen a shocking spike in antisemitic acts of hatred around the world, including some isolated incidents right here in South Dakota,” remarked South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem during the signing ceremony of the bill titled HB 1076.
“I am very proud to sign this historic bill to keep our Jewish people secure. I hope more states will follow our leadership,” she said.
The bill defines antisemitism according to IHRA’s working definition adopted in 2016. This includes contemporary examples of antisemitism, such as denying Jews their right to self-determination by claiming the State of Israel’s existence is a racist endeavor, comparing contemporary Israeli policies to those of the Nazis, and holding Jews collectively responsible for the actions of the State of Israel.
This definition of antisemitism has been adopted by over 1,200 entities globally, including 35 US states and 91 cities, the US State Department, and is part of President Biden’s National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism.
