For the second year in a row, the Missouri State Legislature has taken up the issue of codifying the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism. While some claim this action is necessary to protect Jewish people, many others–Jewish and non-Jewish included–have spoken out in opposition of a definition that equates any critique of Israel with antisemitism. Such a definition does not keep anyone safe—it puts everyone at risk by limiting free speech and framing the Jewish community as a monolith. This is why MaTovu does not embrace this definition and instead relies on the Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism as our guide on this question, creating space for a diversity of opinions and acknowledging that Jewish safety is bound up in the safety of others.

Please join us in conversation and collective action. Stop by to talk, write letters or make calls to representatives if you'd like, and share space with members of the MaTovu Community. All are welcome, food will be provided. Together, we can create a safe community for all!