Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) took part in a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing titled “Never to Be Silent: Stemming the Tide of Antisemitism in America,” where she addressed concerns regarding the rise of antisemitic incidents, particularly on college campuses. The hearing featured testimony from multiple witnesses, including Alyza Lewin, President of the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights under Law.
During the hearing, Senator Britt recalled her visit to Israel shortly after the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks by Hamas, describing the experience as “gut-wrenching” and “heartbreaking.” She expressed concern over antisemitic incidents that followed in the United States, specifically on university campuses. Citing specific cases, she pointed to incidents at UCLA, Yale, Cornell, and Columbia, where Jewish students reportedly faced discrimination and hostility.
Senator Britt reiterated her stance that universities must be held accountable for allowing antisemitic rhetoric and actions on campus. She previously addressed this issue in an open letter to Jewish college students in November 2023, where she voiced her support and urged stronger measures to protect students.
During the hearing, Britt questioned Lewin on legislative actions needed to combat antisemitism within educational institutions. Lewin emphasized the importance of adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and codifying Executive Order 13899, which aims to provide legal clarity on what constitutes antisemitic discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. She also supported withholding federal funding from institutions that fail to address violations of Title VI.
Senator Britt endorsed these measures and underscored her support for the Antisemitism Awareness Act and the Countering Antisemitism Act. She concluded by stressing the need for continued legislative efforts to ensure that antisemitism is effectively addressed and that Jewish students can pursue their education free from discrimination and harassment.
