NEWARK, NJ — The Council on American-Islamic Relations’ New Jersey chapter (CAIR-NJ) has publicly urged the New Jersey Senate to oppose Senate Bill 1292 and Senate Bill 2937. The organization asserts these bills, which aim to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism, could potentially hinder free speech and advocacy efforts.
In an open letter to senators, CAIR-NJ highlighted concerns that these legislative proposals might not only equate criticism of Israel (anti-Zionism) with antisemitism but also suppress voices advocating for Palestinian rights and empowerment. The organization fears such measures could harm New Jersey’s commitment to freedom of speech and diversity.
CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut emphasized the Muslim community’s longstanding opposition to all forms of bigotry, noting that the proposed bills could endanger Muslim and Palestinian communities in New Jersey amid rising anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian sentiment. Civil Rights Attorney Ayah Zaki underscored the importance of protecting First Amendment rights, stating that it’s possible to fight antisemitism without infringing upon free speech or hindering critique of Israeli policies.
CAIR, dedicated to protecting civil liberties, enhancing the understanding of Islam, promoting justice, and empowering American Muslims, calls for the rejection of these bills, arguing they prioritize foreign interests over Americans’ constitutional rights.