Biden denounces a sharp increase in antisemitism in the United States

President Biden delivered a powerful speech on Tuesday condemning the surge of antisemitism in the United States following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack against Israel. Speaking at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Days of Remembrance, Mr. Biden emphasized the importance of remembering the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.

The president tied the anti-Jewish sentiment that led to the Nazi effort to exterminate Jews directly to the recent Hamas attack, stating, “This ancient hatred of Jews didn’t begin with the Holocaust. It didn’t end with the Holocaust, either.” Mr. Biden, a self-described Zionist, made it clear that he stands in support of Jewish Americans while also calling for the protection of civilians in Gaza.

As protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza continue to escalate on college campuses, with some demonstrations turning into platforms for antisemitic rhetoric and harassment targeting Jewish students, Mr. Biden emphasized that there is no place for hate speech or violence of any kind in America.

The Biden administration has taken steps to combat antisemitism, with the Education Department releasing new guidance to schools and colleges outlining examples of antisemitic discrimination that could lead to investigations. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security will offer new resources to address campus safety concerns.

In his speech, Mr. Biden reaffirmed his commitment to Israel’s security while acknowledging the resonance of the pro-Palestinian cause with other minority groups. He stressed the importance of standing against hate and discrimination, emphasizing that scapegoating any minority threatens the foundation of democracy.

The president’s speech concluded with a poignant moment as he stood alongside Holocaust survivors, holding a photo of four children close to his chest, symbolizing the importance of remembering the past to prevent history from repeating itself.