Mass. commission hearing sees widespread public opposition to adopting IHRA definition; many urge Jerusalem Declaration or anti‑racist framework

A Massachusetts Special Commission on Combatting Antisemitism hearing heard extensive public comment urging the body not to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, with many callers instead recommending the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism or an anti‑racist framework.

Caroline Light, a Jewish historian at Harvard, told the commission: "Please start by decoupling antisemitism from anti‑Zionism, and by connecting antisemitism to the wider web of oppressive systems that harm other minorities." She said the commission should "make space for the full range of Jewish voices" and recommended the Jerusalem Declaration as guidance.

Multiple speakers raised similar concerns. Jotam (Julian) Tubel, who identified himself as Israeli, argued the IHRA definition would "label legitimate criticism of the Israeli state as antisemitic,"…