Columbia Standard

U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin, who serves as the Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, addressed the issue of rising antisemitism in America during a committee hearing titled “Never to be Silent: Stemming the Tide of Antisemitism in America.” According to FBI reports, nearly 2,000 hate crimes against the Jewish community were recorded in 2023. Over two-thirds of religious-based hate crimes reported that year were motivated by anti-Jewish bias. This increase follows a resurgence of antisemitism since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

Durbin highlighted previous hearings held under his chairmanship addressing hate-motivated violence. He mentioned testimony from Rabbi Charlie Cytron-Walker regarding a hostage crisis at his synagogue in Colleyville, Texas.

He stated, “Let’s be clear. There is no justification—none—for antisemitism, whether from the left or the right side of the political spectrum. Violence or threats of violence have no place—none—on our college campuses and should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

Durbin criticized actions by President Trump’s administration, expressing concern over comments made by Trump about Jewish voters and pardons issued to January 6 insurrection participants who espoused violent antisemitism.

“This President [Trump] has also given an outsized role in [his Administration] to Elon Musk,” Durbin noted, referring to Musk's alleged endorsement of far-right German political parties.

The senator expressed worry over Trump's attacks on diversity policies and mentioned that these actions led at least one federal agency to halt Holocaust Remembrance Day observances. He also raised concerns about Trump's promotion of the "Great Replacement Theory," which was referenced by a gunman responsible for an attack on Pittsburgh's Tree of Life synagogue.

In conclusion, Durbin cited a statement from over 100 Jewish organizations warning that antisemitism rises when democratic norms are threatened: “History has made clear that our safety as Jews is inextricably linked with inclusive, pluralistic democracy and with the rights and safety of all people.”

The hearing was part of broader efforts under Durbin’s leadership to address hate crimes affecting various marginalized communities across America. These efforts included examining domestic terrorism threats following incidents such as those in Buffalo and Pittsburgh.

Previously introduced legislation by Durbin aimed at preventing domestic terrorism was filibustered by Senate Republicans after a racially motivated attack in Buffalo.