In an effort to combat rising antisemitism, Putnam County has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism.
The resolution, introduced by Legislator Bill Gouldman, R-Putnam Valley, passed unanimously in the County Legislature and was signed into law by County Executive Kevin Byrne recently.
The resolution acknowledges the alarming rise in antisemitic acts across the nation and adopts the IHRA’s definition as a vital tool for training, education, and tracking incidents of antisemitism. The definition reads: “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”
“The rise of antisemitism in this country is deeply troubling and demands action,” said Byrne. “By adopting the IHRA’s definition, we’re taking a strong stance to educate, prevent, and combat hate within our community. Putnam County has always stood for tolerance and respect, and this resolution is another step in ensuring all residents feel safe and protected.”
Gouldman said hate has no place in Putnam.
“Antisemitism is one of the oldest and most persistent forms of hate,” he said. “According to the Antidefamation League, from October 2023 to September 2024, there was a more than 200 percent rise in antisemitic acts. This is wrong, and this must stop. I thank my colleagues in the Legislature for passing this resolution unanimously. We must stand with our Jewish neighbors to battle antisemitism in all forms.”
Rabbi Barbara AB Symons of Reform Temple of Putnam Valley said she was pleased to learn of the passage of Resolution 308 by the Legislature.
“Antisemitism and all forms of hate cannot be tolerated,” she said. “Definitions, resolutions, and communication are an important three-step process toward eradicating hate and celebrating the diversity that is America.”
Congressman Mike Lawler, R-Rockland, and Assemblyman Matt Slater, R-Yorktown, have both introduced legislation at the federal and state level that would adopt the same IHRA definition.
“Putnam County continues to lead from the front, and by passing a working definition of antisemitism, is sending a strong message that antisemitism will not be tolerated,” said Slater. “The alarming rise of antisemitism in New York State cited by a recent report by State Comptroller (Thomas) DiNapoli requires swift and strong action. I applaud Putnam County’s leadership for setting the example for my colleagues in Albany to follow.”
The resolution also ensures that adopting the definition does not infringe on rights protected under the First Amendment or the New York State Constitution. It directs the definition to be used exclusively as a tool for training, education, and recognizing antisemitic incidents – ensuring its alignment with constitutional principles.
Copies of the resolution have been forwarded to the Putnam County district attorney, the sheriff, and other agencies and organizations to promote awareness and encourage its application throughout the community.
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