Antisemitism

What is Antisemitism?

Antisemitism is a negative perception of Jewish people that may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. It can take verbal or physical forms and may target Jewish or non-Jewish individuals, their property, or Jewish community and religious institutions.

Texas's Commitment to Combating Antisemitism

Texas has taken meaningful steps to address antisemitism through legislation, education, and public awareness.

• Texas Establishes the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission
  
  Created by the 87th Texas Legislature in 2021, the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission (THGAAC) is the only state Holocaust and genocide commission in the country whose mission also includes combating antisemitism.

• Texas Adopts the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism
  
  Upon establishing the THGAAC, the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism was incorporated into Texas law. The definition provides a framework for recognizing and understanding antisemitism.
  
  In 2025, the 89th Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 326, requiring public K-12 schools and higher education institutions to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism when evaluating student code-of-conduct violations.

• Texas Recognizes Jewish American Heritage Month
  
  Texas recognizes Jewish American Heritage Month as an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the history, heritage, and contributions of Jewish Americans. Governor Abbott has recognized May as Jewish American Heritage Month, highlighting the important role Jewish Texans and Jewish Americans have played in strengthening the state and nation.
  Governor Abbott Proclaims May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month

• Texas Requires a Statewide Study of Antisemitism
  
  Texas law requires the THGAAC to conduct a biennial study on antisemitism in the state and submit a report on its findings and recommendations. This ongoing research helps provide a clearer understanding of antisemitism in Texas and informs efforts to address it. 
  
  

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