Five hours was not enough time to fit in everyone who wanted to share their opinions about a possible new official definition for antisemitism in New Jersey.
A Senate hearing drew 600 people who requested to comment about whether New Jersey should adopt the definition of antisemitism as outlined by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, which includes certain criticisms of Israel.
That drew considerable support but also vehement opposition during fiery testimony Monday, which included frequent interruptions and occasional obscenities.
“I have been told that I do not represent Teaneck, New Jersey, but that I’m really an agent of the Israeli government,” said Teaneck Councilwoman Hillary Goldberg, who testified in support of the bill. “When I was asked why people who voted for me feel betrayed, the answer from a former deputy mayor was ‘Well, she’s a Zionist.’”
Yet others spoke against the bill, saying that criticism of Israel would surely be labeled criticism of Jewish people as a whole.
“I can criticize my own country without consequences, but unfortunately if you criticize Israel, there’s consequences,” said Bader Risheg, a North Bergen schoolteacher. “I feel like there should be some sort of equity.”
Because so many people signed up to testify, the hearing will continue on Thursday morning.
Major funding for Exploring Hate has been provided by The Sylvia A. and Simon B. Poyta Programming Endowment to Fight Antisemitism, Sue and Edgar Wachenheim III, Charlotte and David Ackert, The Peter G. Peterson and Joan Ganz Cooney Fund, and Patti Askwith Kenner. For a complete list of funders, please visit: pbs.org/exploring
