New York Mayor Unveils Anti-Antisemitism Plan Amid Criticism

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has launched the United States' first municipal plan to combat antisemitism. The 35-page report, however, omits any mention of Israel, the war in Gaza, or anti-Israel protests, and does not examine whether these demonstrations have led to harm against Jews or attempt to define antisemitism officially. The plan significantly increases the budget for the Office to Combat Hate Crimes from $3 million to $29 million annually. Additional funding includes $6.4 million for prevention and aid organizations, $1 million for security at synagogues and Jewish institutions, $2 million for a Holocaust memorial in Queens, and $2.5 million for a Jewish cultural center in Brooklyn. Student visits to the Museum of Jewish Heritage in Manhattan will also be expanded.

Adams stated in an accompanying video, "Today, we have the responsibility to care for our Jewish neighbors and protect them, a responsibility that falls on each of us." The omission of Israel and related protests drew sharp criticism prior to the report's release. Republican Congressman Michael Nozzolillo told the Director of the Mayor's Office to Combat Antisemitism, Felicia Wiseman, that "the main source of antisemitism in the city right now is Mayor Adams." Amy Spitalnick, head of a national Jewish organization, welcomed the steps but stressed the report must acknowledge violence against Jews occurring under the guise of anti-Israel protest.

Wiseman clarified that Jews who disagree with the mayor are still entitled to city protection, and Senator Liz Krueger praised the plan, emphasizing that Jews supporting Zionism should be free to express their views without fear. Israel's Consul General in New York, Ofir Akunis, criticized Mayor Adams, stating, "Money doesn't buy values. Until you stop the incitement and blood libels against the Jewish state, the State of Israel that you do not recognize, antisemitism in New York City will only continue to grow."