Eric Adams signed a high-profile executive order this week requiring New York City departments to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s antisemitism definition. Adams connected the policy to recent violent incidents and emphasized the need for bold action given the normalization of what he characterized as antisemitic propaganda masquerading as legitimate activism in various community settings.
The IHRA definition has sparked controversy due to examples that free speech advocates argue could suppress legitimate political criticism of Israeli government actions. Particularly concerning are provisions that might classify certain forms of Israel criticism as antisemitic, potentially limiting discourse in educational institutions and public forums throughout the city.
With the Democratic primary approaching, Adams’ stance on this issue may prove decisive given the contrasting positions of his opponents on Israel-Palestine issues. Andrew Cuomo has established himself as an unwavering ally of Israel, while Zohran Mamdani has consistently advocated for Palestinian rights and described the situation in Gaza as genocidal.