Mayor Eric Adams has mandated that New York City agencies use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism through an executive order. The policy announcement at a synagogue underscored Adams’ response to rising antisemitic sentiment and his effort to position himself as a defender of Jewish communities while facing intense political scrutiny.
The definition includes examples that have become flashpoints in debates over the boundaries between antisemitism and legitimate political criticism of Israeli government actions. Free speech advocates worry that provisions identifying certain forms of Israel criticism as antisemitic could be applied too broadly, potentially limiting discourse on college campuses and in political forums throughout the city.
Adams’ policy decision comes as he faces a competitive primary where his opponents present dramatically different approaches to Middle East issues. Former Governor Cuomo has demonstrated unwavering support for Israeli leadership, while progressive candidate Mamdani has been highly critical of Israeli actions in Gaza and has called for legal accountability regarding what he describes as war crimes.