Las Vegas City Council Adopts IHRA Antisemitism Definition – European Jewish Congress
The Las Vegas City Council has unanimously approved a resolution to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism. The resolution, known as R-5-2024, will serve as an educational tool for municipal agencies, including law enforcement, in their efforts to combat antisemitism.
Councilwoman Victoria Seaman, a keynote speaker at the 2023 North American Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism organized by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM), initiated the resolution. Her speech at the summit, held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida last November, underscored the critical need for united action against antisemitism.
The IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, along with its eleven contemporary examples, will now be integrated into Las Vegas’ educational resources for law enforcement agencies and other City entities responsible for addressing discrimination. By adopting this definition, Las Vegas becomes the 91st U.S. municipality to take a stand against antisemitism using the IHRA framework.
The resolution represents a significant step in safeguarding the rights and security of the Jewish community in Las Vegas. The European Jewish Congress (EJC) commended the city council’s decision, emphasizing the importance of consistent and widespread adoption of the IHRA Working Definition as a means to combat the rise of antisemitic incidents.
Dr. Moshe Kantor, President of the European Jewish Congress, applauded the resolution, calling it a crucial and welcome development in the battle against anti-Jewish hatred and expressing hope that it will inspire other municipalities to follow suit.
The IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism has gained traction globally and provides a comprehensive framework for identifying and combatting antisemitic acts. Recognizing the need to address the evolving nature of antisemitism, the definition offers contemporary examples that encompass various forms of discrimination, including hate speech, denial of Holocaust, and targeting of Jewish institutions.
With Las Vegas joining the growing list of municipalities adopting this definition, it sends a powerful message of solidarity and commitment to combating antisemitism. By equipping law enforcement agencies and other city entities with this educational tool, Las Vegas aims to promote a greater understanding of antisemitism and effectively address incidents of discrimination.
The resolution is an important milestone in the ongoing fight against antisemitism, both in the United States and around the world. It underscores the city’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and tolerant society, where individuals of all backgrounds can thrive without fear of persecution or discrimination.
Las Vegas is now at the forefront of a global movement to combat antisemitism, leading the way for other cities to stand against this age-old prejudice. Through education, awareness, and coordinated efforts, communities can work together to eradicate antisemitism, promoting peace, and safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals.
This significant development in Las Vegas demonstrates the city’s commitment to creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all its residents. It is a shining example of how cities can take substantive action in the fight against antisemitism, ensuring justice and equality for generations to come.
As the adoption of the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism continues to gain momentum, it is expected that more cities, both in the United States and across the globe, will follow suit. This united front against antisemitism represents a beacon of hope for a world free from discrimination, where diversity is celebrated, and hatred has no place.
