<[link removed]>Friend,

Protecting our freedoms of speech and protest have never been more important. This month has been a sobering reminder of that.

Amidst the challenges and heartbreak, we’re celebrating the defeat of two laws that would suppress free speech in the false name of Jewish safety by codifying the IHRA definition of antisemitism. (Need a refresher on IHRA? Watch our explainer video. <[link removed]>)

First, in New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani rescinded every order that former mayor Eric Adams issued after his indictment on federal corruption charges, including revoking the IHRA definition of antisemitism as a codified legal definition.

Second, in neighboring New Jersey, Bend the Arc leaders helped stop NJ bill A3558, another dangerous attempt to codify IHRA into law. Read how we won this New Jersey IHRA fight on our blog here. <[link removed]>

There are better ways to fight antisemitism, including a new bill that was introduced right after the horrific attack at Bondi Beach. It’s called the Antisemitism Response and Prevention Act (ARPA).

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As I shared in my new Times of Israel piece Finally, A Bill That Will Actually Fight Antisemitism <[link removed]>:

"We’re starting the new year with an important new tool in our kit: a proactive, forward-looking plan that will help fight antisemitism — and all forms of bigotry. ARPA actually takes meaningful steps to fight for Jewish safety and the safety of our democracy."

<[link removed]>READ ABOUT ARPA <[link removed]>Defeating IHRA and introducing visionary legislation are wins, but the fight isn’t over. In New Jersey and states around the country, bills to codify IHRA will continue to advance.

But even in a moment of growing authoritarianism, winning is possible when we organize together across difference with courage, clarity, and solidarity.

Thank you for being a part of this movement,

Jamie Beran
CEO, Bend the Arc


PS: Excited about ARPA? Use our easy tool to email your Representatives to let them know they should co-sponsor it! <[link removed]>

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