Combating Anti-Semitism
Dec 16, 2019
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Dec 11, 2019
Published on: Dec 16, 2019
Dec 16, 2019
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Dec 11, 2019
Published on: Dec 16, 2019
Summary
Requires government agencies to fight anti-Jewish hate by enforcing civil rights laws that ban discrimination based on race, color, or national origin.
What problem does this solve?
Hate against Jewish people has been increasing, especially in schools, but existing civil rights laws do not specifically protect against religious hate. This order clarifies that these laws can be used to fight anti-Jewish hate when it is based on a person's race, color, or national origin.
What does this order do?
Enforces Title VI against anti-semitism
Makes it official policy for the government to use Title VI of the Civil Rights Act to fight discrimination rooted in anti-semitism.
Uses IHRA definition of anti-semitism
Tells government agencies to consider the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of anti-semitism when looking for evidence of discrimination.
Protects First Amendment rights
States that using the IHRA definition should not reduce or violate any rights protected by the First Amendment, such as free speech.
Reference
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Section:
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Additional authorities prohibiting anti-semitic discrimination
Requires agency review of other laws
Orders agencies to identify other anti-discrimination laws they enforce where the IHRA definition could also be used.
Who does this affect?
- Jewish students
- Universities and colleges receiving federal funding
- Federal agencies
What is the real world impact?
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Strengthens protection against anti-semitism
Provides a clearer legal tool for the government to fight discrimination against Jewish people, especially in schools and colleges that receive federal money.
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Raises free speech concerns
Critics worry that using the IHRA's definition of anti-semitism could be used to silence legitimate criticism of the Israeli government's policies, limiting free speech on college campuses.
When does this start?
This order became effective on December 11, 2019, and sets a deadline for federal agencies to submit a report.
Reference
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Section:
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Additional authorities prohibiting anti-semitic discrimination
Agency report on anti-discrimination authorities
Within 120 days of December 11, 2019, the head of each agency must report on other non-discrimination laws where the IHRA definition could be considered.