Antisemitism Sign — Courtesy: Shutterstock — Image by: Christopher Penler
A bill that the Senate overwhelmingly approved on Wednesday would define antisemitism in Florida law. The bill’s proponent cautioned that if attacks against Jews rise, other groups would become the target of radicalism.
A number of states, including Florida, are attempting to define antisemitism. Gov. Brian Kemp of Georgia signed a bill akin to this one last month.
Antisemitic incidents can signal impending extremism and violence and be a sign of deeper social unrest. The bill’s sponsor, Democratic Sen. Lori Berman, stated, “It is unacceptable and dangerous.” “Hateful behavior towards individuals can swiftly turn into a widespread issue in society.”
The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance provided the wording for the legislation. “A certain perception of Jewish individuals which may be expressed as hatred toward such individuals” is the definition of antisemitism. Antisemitism can take many forms, including verbal and physical attacks on Jewish and non-Jewish people, their belongings, Jewish community organizations, and places of worship.
Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas war in October, there has been a sharp increase in antisemitic acts. Florida had to cope with antisemitic posters on buildings, notably the Jacksonville Jaguars football stadium, antisemitic pamphlets in neighborhoods, and neo-Nazi protestors at highway overpasses even before the war.
According to Berman, “this bill is one way to combat antisemitism.” “We are going to recognize, confront, and denounce antisemitism clearly by defining and codifying it.”
She argued that the bill does not restrict free speech or stop anyone from criticizing Israel in the same way that it would any other nation. But, having it as a legal requirement will enable law enforcement to employ it in hate crime prosecutions.
According to Berman, “what this bill will do is help educate and sensitize judges, police, teachers, elected officials, the media, and civil society about what constitutes antisemitism.”
The law was approved by the House last month, but before it could be sent to the governor, the Senate would need to review a few minor revisions. The office of Republican governor Ron DeSantis stated that after receiving the measure, he will study it.
The yearly Congress adjourns on March 8.
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Mike has more than 30 years of experience in marketing and public relations. He once owned his own agency and has worked with some of the largest brands in the world.
