Bill Combatting Antisemitism in Schools Surges Forward Amid Educator Pushback

A controversial bill advancing through Arizona’s legislature could expose educators to legal action if accused of antisemitism in their teaching practices. On May 28, the Arizona Senate approved House Bill 2867, which aims to prohibit educators from teaching or promoting antisemitic content while also restricting educational institutions from mandating such content in curriculums.

The bill allows individuals to sue teachers if they believe the educators are promoting antisemitism in the classroom. Supporters argue that the legislation is a necessary response to a noted increase in antisemitic incidents, particularly following the conflict in Israel that erupted in October 2023.

Rep. Michael Way, the bill’s sponsor, highlighted concerns over perceived antisemitic narratives proliferating in institutions like the University of Arizona and Arizona State University. Critics, however, assert that the legislation fails to genuinely tackle antisemitism and may instead contribute to increased attrition among teachers.

The Arizona Education Association and various community organizations recently expressed alarm over the bill, warning that it could deter educators from remaining in the profession. A joint letter designated the measure as an unprecedented legal framework that infringes on educators’ professional protections, placing the burden of legal defense on individual teachers.

Democratic lawmakers voiced concerns during Senate discussions, arguing that the bill unfairly equates advocacy for Palestinian rights with antisemitism. “This conflation is dangerous and offensive,” remarked Sen. Analise Ortiz, D-Phoenix. Her colleague, Sen. Mitzi Epstein, D-Tempe, criticized the legislation for lacking a broader focus on education and cultural understanding.

Epstein proposed an amendment to include protections for various groups facing discrimination and to eliminate the possibility of lawsuits against teachers, but it was dismissed by Republican lawmakers. In response, an amendment introduced by Sen. J.D. Mesnard, R-Chandler, clarified that the bill would focus specifically on classroom actions and allow for reporting alleged violations to school officials instead of the state education department.

Republican support for the bill remains firm, with many legislators emphasizing the necessity of addressing antisemitism. Sen. Hildy Angius, R-Bullhead City, remarked on the need for acknowledgment of this issue, stating that it continues to escalate. The legislation underscores a growing tension within educational discourse regarding antisemitism and its intersection with discussions of social justice.