U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz is calling for Congress to allocate funds to combat the increasing prevalence of antisemitism on both the political left and right.
U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a Republican from Pennsylvania, and the Weston Democrat, who co-chairs Florida’s congressional delegation, have collaborated on a letter urging the allocation of funds to execute a U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism.
In May, President Joe Biden announced a new strategy aimed at combating the spread of hate against Jewish people. This marks the first-time initiative dedicated solely to this cause.
The recent Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel on October 7 have led to an increase in anti-Semitic activities in the United States. Fitzpatrick and Wasserman Schultz assert that it is imperative for Congress to unite and take action against this rising threat.
The letter expresses optimism that the nation’s budget will reflect the widespread support from both political parties and stakeholders for the President’s initiative to put an end to the propagation of hatred.
The American Jewish community needs funding from Congress to support their cause.
Several Florida lawmakers, including both Republicans and Democrats, co-signed a letter sent to top members of the House and Senate appropriations committees. The letter specifically included signatures from Republican representatives Vern Buchanan and María Elvira Salazar, as well as Democratic representatives Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, Lois Frankel, Maxwell Frost, and Jared Moskowitz.
Following the Hamas attacks, there has been a significant rise in the amplification of replacement theory by right-wing commentators. This theory suggests a conspiracy by Jewish leaders to replace the White population. Additionally, there have been instances of demonstrations on college campuses, including those in Florida, that have left Jewish students feeling threatened.
According to the letter, college campuses have become a breeding ground for antisemitism, causing Jewish students to live in fear of being discriminated against.
According to the American Jewish Committee, digital platforms that benefit from hateful content have hastened the increase of antisemitism. Shockingly, 85% of Jewish young adults have personally experienced online antisemitism. This was all before the appalling attack on Israelis by Hamas terrorists, which has resulted in an even greater prevalence of antisemitic conspiracy theories, disinformation, and instigation of violence in various parts of the world, including our own country.
The rise in violence against Jews has been a concerning issue for the nation, even before the Oct. 7 attacks. It is more than just a matter of speech, and it demands immediate attention.
According to a letter, the number of antisemitic incidents has been increasing. The Anti-Defamation League reported 3,697 incidents last year, ranging from propaganda to bomb threats to armed assault. This is the highest number on record, and has been surpassed three times in the past five years. The FBI also recorded a 37% increase in antisemitic hate crimes in 2022. Antisemitism has become a common occurrence on college campuses, with many Jewish students concerned about being discriminated against.
Debbie Wasserman Schultz, a highly esteemed politician, has been actively working towards combating online antisemitism. She holds the position of founder and co-chair of the Interparliamentary Task Force for this cause. Additionally, she serves on the House Appropriations Committee and holds the prestigious position of ranking member of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee.
As a member of the House of Representatives, Fitzpatrick actively participates in the fight against anti-Semitism as co-chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force. Additionally, he holds a position on the House Ways and Means Committee, contributing to important legislative decisions.
Throughout their careers, both individuals have been unwavering supporters of Israel, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the country.
The number of times this post has been viewed is currently at 0. This information is displayed in the Post Views section, which is marked by a chart bar icon and includes a label and count.
