This resolution condemns the violent antisemitic attack in Boulder, Colorado, and expresses unwavering support for the survivors and their families amidst rising national antisemitism.
Michael Bennet
Senator
CO
This resolution strongly condemns the violent antisemitic attack that occurred during a peaceful march in Boulder, Colorado. It expresses unwavering support for the survivors and their families in the wake of this hate crime. Furthermore, the measure addresses the alarming national rise in antisemitism and calls for continued vigilance and resources to combat such extremism. Ultimately, it affirms the commitment to protecting all communities and upholding the right to live without fear.
Senate Formally Condemns Boulder Antisemitic Attack, Calls for Increased Federal Hate Crime Resources
This resolution is the Senate’s formal, official statement condemning the violent, antisemitic attack that occurred on June 1, 2025, in Boulder, Colorado. Essentially, Congress is using this resolution to put its weight behind the victims and the broader community, while also acknowledging a disturbing national trend.
The Official Condemnation: What Happened in Boulder
The resolution focuses on a specific incident: an attack during a peaceful “Run for Their Lives” march, an event organized to call for the release of hostages held by Hamas. The attack involved a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails, seriously injuring several people, including a Holocaust survivor. Federal authorities are treating this as both an act of terrorism and a federal hate crime. While resolutions don't change laws or allocate money directly, this one sends a clear message: the Senate is taking this specific act of violence seriously and views it as an attack on American values.
Acknowledging the Bigger Picture: The Spike in Antisemitism
What makes this resolution relevant to everyone, not just those in Boulder, is its focus on the national context. The Senate acknowledges that this attack didn't happen in a vacuum. It points out the disturbing spike in antisemitic incidents nationwide, citing data showing that antisemitic activity in Colorado alone increased by 40 percent in 2024. For everyday people, this means Congress is formally recognizing that the threats faced by Jewish communities across the country—from harassment on campuses to violence at synagogues—are real and escalating. This formal recognition is often the first step toward policy changes down the road.
Call for Resources and Community Support
The resolution isn't just about condemnation; it’s a call to action for the federal government. The Senate is urging continued vigilance and demanding that federal agencies provide the necessary resources to investigate hate crimes and support targeted communities. If you’re a local law enforcement official or part of a community organization fighting hate, this resolution provides political backing for your requests for federal assistance. Furthermore, the Senate commends the Boulder community for its resilience and affirms its support for the survivors, their families, and the local chapters of the “Run for Their Lives” organization, supporting their right to continue their peaceful advocacy.
Affirming Core Values Against Hate
Ultimately, this resolution affirms core American values. It clearly states that hate and violence are unacceptable and that everyone deserves to live without fear of persecution, supporting both freedom of speech and freedom of religion. While this type of measure doesn't create new regulations or costs for regular folks, its impact is moral and political: it’s the government formally drawing a line and standing with targeted groups, signaling that the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes remain a national priority.