Mayor Eric Adams signed an executive order this week requiring New York City agencies to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s antisemitism definition. Adams justified the policy by citing recent violent incidents targeting Israeli diplomatic personnel and the need to address what he characterized as a spreading disease of antisemitism in urban communities.
The definition contains controversial examples that free speech advocates argue could criminalize legitimate criticism of Israeli policies. Particularly concerning are provisions that might classify questioning Israel’s founding principles or applying comparative standards as antisemitic, potentially limiting discourse in academic institutions and political forums across the city.
Adams’ adoption of this definition comes as he faces a competitive primary where his opponents hold dramatically different views on Middle East policy. Former Governor Cuomo has demonstrated strong support for Israeli leadership, while progressive candidate Mamdani has been highly critical of Israeli actions and has promised to pursue accountability for what he describes as genocidal policies in Gaza.
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