Congressman Cohen Speaks Against Antisemitism but Understands Reservations about the Free Speech Implications of the Antisemitism Awareness Act

WASHINGTON - Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee and a champion of human rights, today spoke from the House floor against the rise of antisemitism and the response of former President Trump to the demonstration of antisemitism at Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017. In the debate on the Antisemitism Awareness Act today, introduced by Representative Mike Lawler (NY-17), he also expressed understanding about reservations some have about its implications for free speech. But he said heightened antisemitism, not just on college campuses, but on the internet, and elsewhere, prompted him to support the measure. Congressman Cohen suggested the House consider the bipartisan Countering Antisemitism Act introduced by Representatives Kathy Manning (NC-06) and Christopher Smith (NJ-04). Congressman Cohen called upon Lawler to support that measure and Lawler said he would.

The vote on passage of the Antisemitism Awareness Act was 320 to 91.

In his floor remarks, Congressman Cohen said in part:

"I have questions about this bill and that's why I'm here to listen to the debate…There's another bill - Representative Manning's and Representative Smith's bill, it's bipartisan…It's a more inclusive bill and a broader bill…

"There's been antisemitism for over 2000 years…I was concerned, and Mr. (Jerrold) Nadler made the point, that in 2017, in Charlottesville, there were national socialists, American Vanguard groups…, klan members and all kinds of right-wing antisemitic crowds - racist skinheads - and they marched around saying 'Jews will not replace us.' And President Trump said there were 'good people on both sides'…That antisemitism needs to be addressed…"

See his entire speech here.

# # #