NYC Codifies IHRA Antisemitism Definition Amid Criticism

New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed an executive order adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and directed all city agencies to use it in identifying and addressing antisemitic incidents. Adams announced the order at the Tribeca Synagogue, highlighting the sharp rise in antisemitic hate crimes, which disproportionately affect the Jewish community that constitutes about 11% of the city's population. He called on the City Council to codify the IHRA definition into law to strengthen anti-hate measures. The IHRA definition includes examples such as denying Israel's right to exist or applying double standards to it, prompting concerns from some critics about potential suppression of legitimate criticism of Israel. The move follows recent violent attacks against Jewish communities in the U.S. and comes amid heightened tensions over Israel’s actions in Gaza. Jewish leaders largely support the adoption, while some free speech advocates express reservations about its implications.