(BALTIMORE, Md., 7/24/2022) — The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is calling on members of the Montgomery County Council to oppose a county resolution to formally adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Association’s (IHRA) definition and examples of antisemitism, expressing concerns about the potential implications of this framing on free speech and criticism of Israel.
While proponents of the resolution may be pursuing this measure as a way to fight antisemitism, numerous Jewish and civil rights groups have also voiced their opposition to IHRA’s working definition, which was never intended by its drafter for use in government policy and legislation.
SEE: Jewish Voice for Peace Unequivocally Opposes the IHRA Working Definition of Anti-Semitism
Bend the Arc opposes government use of IHRA definition of antisemitism
https://www.bendthearc.us/bend_the_arc_opposes_government_use_of_ihra_definition_of_antisemitism
IHRA definition of anti-Semitism has been weaponized, warns lead drafter
“Activists are often labeled, smeared and doxed for rightfully protesting Israel’s illegal occupation of Palestinian land and crimes against humanity,” said CAIR’s Maryland director Zainab Chaudry, who noted that internationally-respected groups – including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch – have named Israel as an apartheid regime. “IHRA’s definition is controversial and ambiguous in several respects and leaves too much room for misinterpretation and abuse of free speech rights. Codifying this framework in Montgomery County risks inviting more retaliation against human rights activists. The resolution undermines legitimate efforts to counter bigotry and hate while safeguarding Israel’s unconscionable actions from scrutiny and condemnation.”
The Montgomery County Council is expected to vote on the resolution Tuesday. Community members are urged to contact council members and voice their opposition.
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT: CAIR Office in Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062