New York, NY – Dianne Lob, Chair, and William Daroff, CEO, of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, issued the following statement:
“The Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations commends the Virginia state legislature and Governor Glenn Youngkin for formally adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism. This legislation, which passed with wide bipartisan support in both chambers, marks a pivotal moment in the fight against antisemitism and discrimination, and sets a righteous example for other states to follow. With 31 states having adopted the definition through legislation or executive action, Virginia’s decision adds to the growing momentum in acknowledging the importance of combating antisemitism nationwide.
“The IHRA definition of antisemitism remains the gold standard for identifying and addressing this pervasive form of hatred. It is crucial to confront not only overt acts of antisemitism, but also instances where anti-Israel rhetoric serves as a cover for antisemitic sentiments. Virginia’s adoption of the IHRA definition sends a powerful message that antisemitism will not be tolerated, and the perpetrators will be held accountable.”
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