MPAC Strongly Condemns Harvard University’s Adoption of the IHRA Definition of Antisemitism

Washington, D.C. | www.mpac.org | January 23, 2025 — The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) strongly condemns Harvard University’s recent decision to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. This definition, reached as part of a legal settlement, dangerously conflates legitimate criticism of Israeli government policies with antisemitism and poses a severe threat to free academic discourse.

MPAC opposes all forms of hatred and bigotry, including antisemitism. However, it is vital to clearly distinguish between antisemitic hate speech and legitimate criticism of the Israeli government's policies. Harvard’s adoption of the IHRA definition distorts these lines, risking the suppression of necessary scholarly and political critique, which is fundamental to a vibrant academic environment.

These policies do more than suppress student activism; they significantly stifle discourse and curriculum related to the critique of Israel and Middle Eastern politics. By curbing curriculum and discussions on these topics, the administration not only creates an intimidating atmosphere but also undermines the exchange of ideas foundational to academic life and critical inquiry. This trend severely undermines the university's ability to uphold its commitment to fostering an environment where diverse ideas and debates can thrive, which is crucial for maintaining its stature as a pillar of democratic values and intellectual exploration.

The implications of this decision on academic freedom are deeply troubling. Educational institutions, particularly those as esteemed as Harvard, must be bastions of free expression where complex, sometimes controversial, topics can be explored and discussed openly without fear of censorship. Policies that equate legitimate political discourse with hate speech do not enhance safety; rather, they diminish the marketplace of ideas.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council calls upon Harvard University to reaffirm its commitment to academic freedom and reevaluate its policies to ensure they protect all students from discrimination while robustly maintaining the principles of free speech and intellectual debate. It is imperative that measures to protect any student group are implemented in a manner that does not curtail the necessary academic freedoms essential for critical inquiry and scholarly engagement.