This resolution formally condemns the recent surge in antisemitic attacks across the United States, citing specific tragedies and statistics to reaffirm the Senate's commitment to fighting hate.
James Lankford
Senator
OK
This resolution formally condemns the recent surge in antisemitic attacks across the United States, citing specific tragedies in Washington, D.C., and Boulder, Colorado. It acknowledges the widespread celebration of this violence online and highlights alarming statistics showing the dramatic increase in religiously motivated hate crimes against Jewish Americans. Ultimately, the Senate reaffirms its commitment to fighting antisemitism as a threat to American democracy.
Resolution Condemns Antisemitism Surge, Mourns Victims of D.C. and Boulder Attacks
This resolution isn’t changing any laws or adding new taxes, but it’s a big deal because it’s Congress formally acknowledging a serious, scary trend: the massive rise in antisemitism and the violent attacks that have come with it. It’s essentially a public, official statement of horror and solidarity. The resolution focuses on the tragic murders of Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky in Washington, D.C., and the firebombing attack in Boulder, Colorado, which both happened recently.
The Numbers Behind the Fear
For anyone who thinks this is just political noise, the resolution lays out the hard facts. Since October 2023, the numbers are grim: 77% of Jewish Americans report feeling less safe, and 90% say antisemitism has increased in the U.S. Perhaps the most shocking statistic cited is from the FBI’s 2023 Hate Crimes Report, which shows that Jewish Americans—who make up only about 2.4% of the population—were the target of 68% of all religiously motivated hate crimes. That’s a 63% jump in antisemitic incidents in a single year. This resolution makes it clear that this isn't a fringe problem; it’s a mainstream safety crisis impacting a huge number of people.
Condemning Violence and Online Celebrations
The resolution doesn't just condemn hate in general; it calls out the specifics of the D.C. and Boulder attacks. In both cases, the perpetrators made political statements while committing violence. Even more disturbing, the resolution highlights that following these attacks, there was widespread celebration and glorification of the violence on major social media platforms, with attackers being praised as heroes. This is Congress essentially saying, “We see the violence, and we see the digital cheering section, and we condemn both.” For everyday people, this matters because it sets an official moral standard against the normalization of hate speech and violence.
Where the Rubber Meets the Road: Security Resources
Because this is a non-binding resolution, it doesn't create new funding, but it does signal strong support for existing security measures. Specifically, the Senate recognizes the importance of the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), which is run by FEMA. This program helps synagogues, community centers, and other vulnerable non-profits pay for security upgrades—think reinforced doors, cameras, and security personnel. By highlighting the NSGP, the resolution puts a spotlight on the critical need for these resources, which directly impacts the safety and peace of mind for people who attend services, send their kids to community schools, or work at these locations. It’s a subtle but important nudge to ensure these security funds get distributed effectively to the communities facing the highest threat levels.