Federation Responds to San Diego City Council’s Adoption of IHRA Definition of Antisemitism

Jewish Federation of San Diego is proud to join our partner organizations in The Finest Community Coalition in welcoming yesterday’s vote by San Diego City Council to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism (view the Coalition’s statement here).

We join Coalition members in applauding this important step and in thanking Councilmembers LaCava, Moreno, Von Wilpert, Foster, Campillo, Whitburn, Campbell and Lee for passing the resolution, and Mayor Todd Gloria for his strong support. We also thank our community partners and the members of our community who joined us to back the resolution, attend the 6-hour meeting, spoke in favor, or wrote in to make sure councilmembers voted for the resolution. 

For Jewish San Diegans, this moment matters. At a time when antisemitism is rising across the United States, Jewish institutions face growing threats, and costs for security for Jewish institutions are climbing toward $1 billion a year, IHRA’s definition provides a widely recognized framework that helps educators, civic leaders, and institutions better understand and respond to antisemitism in its modern forms. The very comments in opposition yesterday, citing centuries old, vile antisemitic stereotypes and lies, demonstrated the extent of the problem we face. The adoption of the IHRA definition sends a clear signal that our city recognizes antisemitism and is committed to addressing it.

Federation will continue working with civic leaders, community partners, and fellow Coalition members to ensure this action is reflected not only in words, but in ongoing education, partnership, and action that helps San Diego remain a place where Jewish life can thrive.