Antisemitism Protection Act proposed in Michigan legislature
LANSING, (Mich.) WLNS — As the investigation continues into a on a demonstration for Israeli hostages in Gaza, Michigan lawmakers are speaking out against antisemitism in the state.
This includes the introduction of new legislation aimed at protecting people from antisemitism.
Today, three Democratic lawmakers introduced the Michigan Antisemitism Protection Act (MAPA), which amends the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act by adding the official definition of antisemitism used by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.
State Rep. Noah Arbit, from West Bloomfield, said the Act would help identify antisemitism.
'If adopted, the standard would assist relevant state authorities, agencies, and institutions to better identify and elevate potential cases of illegal discrimination against Jews in Michigan,' said Arbit.
However, Arbit, who is Jewish himself, says the problem of anti Semitism can't be solved by a simple bill.
'When it comes to this MAPA bill, or even the new hate crime laws, one thing is certain: they are not a cure-all. Anti-Jewish racism, like all racism, is a societal ill and a public health problem that we need to tackle as such,' said Arbit.
Lawmakers say they see complacency among the general public and a failure from public figures to fight hate. They say, if left unchecked, this, along with what they call 'youth radicalization,' will continue to lead to violent acts.
Some, like State Rep. Samantha Steckloff, are even worried for their safety.
'Every single one of us in the Jewish caucus has received a call from the FBI with credible threats to our life,' said Steckloff.
Arbit said both parties have failed to properly address hate against Jews.
'I don't think either party gets a passing grade here when it comes to fighting antisemitism. I would like to see both parties put a veritable, good-faith effort to improving what they are doing in terms of standing up for the Jewish communities across America,' said Arbit.
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