Statement- New Jewish Narrative Condemns Trump Executive Order to Combat Antisemitism (1-30-2025)

January 30, 2025- Yesterday, the Trump administration issued an Executive Order with the stated intent to combat antisemitism on college campuses. In reality, this Executive Order is a redundant action whose primary impact will be to cast a chill on and intimidate free speech that the administration opposes. There are existing laws that allow the government to deter, investigate and prosecute antisemitic hate crimes. Our immigration laws already bar entry to non citizens who support or endorse terrorist activity. While rising antisemitism across the political spectrum is deeply concerning, this Executive Order does nothing to keep Jews safer.

The White House’s fact sheet detailing the Executive Order reveals a deeply concerning desire to weaponize accusations of antisemitism as a tool to suppress free speech that the administration opposes.

The actions of this administration make it clear that protecting Jews is not a priority. By granting sweeping pardons to neo-Nazis and other violent extremists involved in January 6, and by elevating individuals like Elon Musk and other officials who spread antisemitic conspiracy theories, the Trump Administration has demonstrated a blatant disregard for the real safety and well-being of our community.

NJN President and CEO Hadar Susskind said “This order isn’t about protecting American Jews, it’s about demonizing pro-Palestine speech. Despite claims to be our ‘protector’ Donald Trump and his administration have repeatedly given cover for those sympathetic to Nazi ideologies. This Executive Order rings hollow and we will not allow our identity to be used as a figleaf for this administration’s repressive and Islamophobic agenda.”