While antisemitic incidents are rising across the nation, Nevada lawmakers found themselves embroiled in a political dodge—not over whether to act, but over how to define the very hate they claim to oppose. Senate Bill 179, a proposal to establish a clear definition of antisemitism for discrimination investigations by the Nevada Equal Rights Commission, advanced in the Assembly—but not without a suspiciously timed absence of 10 Democrat lawmakers.
The bill, backed by state Sen. James Ohrenschall (D-Las Vegas) and initially proposed by two Jewish teens, seeks to codify the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) widely adopted working definition of antisemitism. That definition includes contemporary examples of hate, without stifling legitimate political discourse—a point confirmed by the Anti-Defamation League.
Yet during a critical vote on May 23, 10 Democrats were suddenly marked “excused absent.” No explanations. No floor statements. Just silence. Meanwhile, the bill passed 28-4, supported largely by Republicans and a few Democrats who remained in the chamber.
The timing is telling. Internal sources confirm division among the Democrat caucus, with some members preferring the more ambiguous “Jerusalem Declaration”—a definition favored by activists who believe antisemitism must be distinguished from criticism of Israel. But therein lies the problem: watering down the definition to placate fringe elements risks rendering it toothless in real-world investigations.
Assemblywoman Danielle Gallant (R-Las Vegas) called it out plainly: “We knew something was up because they were taking so long. Then only half the caucus shows up.”
Let’s be clear. Antisemitism isn’t a theoretical debate. It’s real, it’s growing, and it’s claiming lives. When elected officials are too afraid to support a definition adopted by leading democracies, major institutions, and even Nevada’s own higher education system—voters should ask: What exactly are they protecting?
It’s worth noting that the same Legislature unanimously approved a bill declaring January 27 as International Holocaust Remembrance Day—an easy, symbolic move. But when faced with a bill that actually empowers investigators to combat antisemitic discrimination, a chunk of the majority party fled the chamber.
Fortunately, SB 179 appears headed to final approval. A separate bill, SB 201—protecting the display of religious artifacts such as mezuzahs—has also advanced with bipartisan support. But actions speak louder than absentee votes.
Nevadans deserve leaders who show up when it counts, not when it’s convenient.
Source: Nevada Legislature
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