Addressing Antisemitism in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Good Afternoon,

I am writing to you today to share some of my recent work to combat antisemitism in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Just the other week, the Massachusetts State Senate unanimously adopted my amendment to our FY’25 State Budget that seeks to address the alarming spike in antisemitic incidents happening in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts has always been known for being an inclusive and welcoming place; that regardless of your background, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or religion that we will accept you as you are and will treat you with kindness and respect. But for too many of our Jewish friends and neighbors living in Massachusetts- we have not been living up to our promise.

The amendment adopted by the Senate would require the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to put together curriculum and professional development resources that can be used in K-12 schools across the Commonwealth to teach students and educators about antisemitism and the harm that is causing. In 2023, there were 101 antisemitic acts of hate that occurred on school property or towards a K-12 student. As a parent, my heart breaks for every Jewish student that has had to endure this. We must put a stop to this.

In addition, the amendment would also organize a commission to make recommendations on other ways we can combat antisemitism and implement the White House National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism in Massachusetts. It sickens me to share that Massachusetts was one of five states that cumulatively makes up almost half of our nation’s acts of antisemitism last year. I refuse to allow my Jewish friends and neighbors to continue to have to live in fear and endure these disturbing acts of hate.

As the legislative process related to this amendment continues, I look forward to continuing this dialogue with members of the Jewish community here in Massachusetts. I welcome the opportunity for your feedback and if I can ever be of assistance please do not hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,

John

State Senator

Hampden & Hampshire District