Following along as State Journal cartoonist Phil Hands draws a cartoon about tariffs.
Articles in the Wisconsin State Journal frequently report Israel’s destructive actions in Gaza, while letters to the editor critique these actions or defend Palestinian rights. But in the name of combating antisemitism, a bill now before the Legislature threatens to make that critique and support illegal.
Using the definition of antisemitism from the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, the bill seeks to codify most criticism of Israel and defense of Palestinian rights as antisemitism.
Antisemitism as hatred of a people is real and dangerous. The state of Israel is a political entity. Critiquing its policies and conduct in Gaza and defending Palestinian rights are protected free speech, and should not be labeled antisemitic.
Like all people, Jews express a variety of political opinions, including critique of Israeli government policies and support of Palestinian rights. Censoring those views, as this definition of antisemitism does, contradicts the right of all of us to free speech. It also blurs the line between political speech and real antisemitism as hatred of a people.
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We encourage our elected representatives in both houses of the Wisconsin Legislature to oppose this legislation. Concerned citizens should contact their legislators and urge opposition to this legislation.
Stephanie Ramer and Mark Bauman, both of Madison, co-directors, Mennonite Action Madison
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