Jewish Groups Laud Iowa Gov. For Bills To Combat Antisemitism, ‘Discriminatory Boycotts of Israel’

Several prominent Jewish American Groups praised Iowa’s governor this week, for signing bills that aim to combat antisemitism and “discriminatory boycotts of Israel.”

First off, Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa endorsed a resolution that adopts the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism, which will be used as an educational tool for state officials and taken into consideration when determining if an alleged discriminatory act is motivated by antisemitism.

Source: NPR (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

The second bill that was signed and passed by Reynolds modifies an earlier law restricting investments of public funds in companies participating in the Palestinian-led boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) campaign, which seeks to isolate Israel.

Reynolds said the bills signal Iowa’s “enduring support for the State of Israel and our categorical rejection of antisemitism.” She added, “Iowa continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with the State of Israel, one of America’s most important and reliable allies while fighting all forms of religious and ethnic discrimination. We strongly believe that both Iowa and Israel can continue to work together to create lasting partnerships that are beneficial to both states and local economies.”

The American Jewish Committee (AJC), which helped draft the text thanked Reynolds saying, “Governor Reynolds has been to Israel and has worked to create lasting partnerships with companies there. This measure affirms the state will not tolerate ethnic and religious discrimination and will strengthen bonds between Iowa and Israel.”