Indiana’s HB 1002: Addressing antisemitism or silencing free speech?

The Indiana House of Representatives unanimously approved HB 1002, which defines antisemitism as religious discrimination in the state education code, Jan. 18. With current conflicts in the Middle East, the bill that failed in previous sessions found support amongst advocates who say instances of antisemitism have increased on Indiana college campuses since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. During this attack, militants stormed into Israel from Gaza, killing over 1,200 people who were mostly civilians. They also captured around 250 people. RELATED: 2024 Indiana legislative bills that affect minorities “We must define antisemitism if we are to counter antisemitism. This legislation provides a universal definition that will align Indiana with a widely accepted standard,” said Jacob Markey, executive director of Indianapolis Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC), in a statement to the Indianapolis Recorder. “Sadly, in 21st century America and in our own state, Jewish students are being targeted and are afraid to be who they are. It is unconscionable and antithetical to our deeply held Hoosier values.” The Indianapolis JCRC commended the unanimous approval, with other Jewish organizations happy to see progress with the bill. Indiana state Rep. Chris Jeter asks lawmakers to support House Bill 1002, which defines...