Senate Republicans Add Religious Freedom Clause to Antisemitism Bill
By Jacob Kornbluh (adapted for Archyde.com) | April 29, 2025
Compromise on Antisemitism Legislation
In a move that could appease christian conservatives, senate Republicans have introduced an amendment to bipartisan legislation aimed at tackling the surge in antisemitism on college campuses. The added language seeks to safeguard religious expression, addressing concerns that the bill might inadvertently stifle constitutionally protected free speech.
The revised Antisemitism Awareness Act, including the new “manager’s amendment,” was released online ahead of a scheduled committee vote. The amendment, championed by Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), chairman of the relevant committee, explicitly states that the legislation should not “diminish or infringe upon any right protected under the Frist Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, including the free exercise of religion.”
Did you know? The First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and expression, preventing the government from establishing a religion or prohibiting its free exercise. This ensures that individuals can freely practice their faith without government interference.
IHRA Definition and free Speech Concerns
At the heart of the bill is the requirement for the Department of Education to adopt the International Holocaust remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when investigating allegations of discrimination. This definition, which classifies many anti-Zionist sentiments as antisemitic, has sparked controversy and fueled free speech concerns.
The bill previously passed the House by a notable margin (320-91) but stalled in the Senate due to these concerns. Its now back before the Senate Health, Education, labor, and Pensions Committee for consideration.
Pro Tip: Understanding the IHRA definition is crucial. It offers a working definition of antisemitism, helping identify and combat various forms of anti-Jewish hatred, including those related to criticism of Israel. Though, the definition has also been criticized for perhaps conflating legitimate political discourse with antisemitism.
dissenting Voices and Religious Liberty
While some Democrats fear the bill could criminalize criticism of Israel, certain Republicans, including Rep. Marjorie taylor-Greene,object to the IHRA’s inclusion of accusing jews of deicide (the killing of Jesus) as antisemitic. This accusation, the claim that jews killed jesus, is widely considered an antisemitic falsehood.
Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Roger Marshall (R-KS), both members of the committee, have also voiced reservations, citing religious liberty and freedom of expression as their primary concerns.
The addition of Cassidy’s amendment aims to address these concerns and potentially secure Republican support by reassuring them that their religious rights will be protected.
Looking Ahead
With the amended bill now under consideration, its future remains uncertain. The inclusion of the religious liberty clause represents a significant attempt to bridge the divide and garner broader support for combating antisemitism on college campuses. however, whether it will be enough to overcome the existing objections remains to be seen.
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frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the Antisemitism awareness Act?
- It’s a bill requiring the Department of Education to use the IHRA definition of antisemitism when investigating discrimination allegations on college campuses.
- What is the IHRA definition of antisemitism?
- It’s a working definition that includes examples of antisemitism, some of which relate to criticism of Israel.
- Why is the religious freedom amendment critically important?
- It aims to protect religious expression and address concerns that the bill could infringe upon First Amendment rights.
