Today, Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) and members of the California Senate Republican Caucus responded to a letter from the California Legislative Jewish Caucus sent earlier this month. In their letter, Republican Senators expressed their unwavering support for and solidarity with the Jewish community while condemning Hamas’ continued attacks on Israel and rising antisemitism against the Jewish people. Click here to download the Senate Republicans’ response letter.
“I am sickened to see such antisemitic behavior in our modern America,” said Senate Minority Leader Jones. “The California Senate Republican Caucus stands firmly as allies with the Jewish Caucus. The Jewish community in our state deserves to know that their full State Legislature indisputably supports it.”
“I stand firm in my unwavering support for Israel and we will continue to stand with the Jewish community as an ally," said Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa). "We must condemn all forms of antisemitism and do more to stop the spread of hate."
Below are excerpts of the caucus’ letter:
…“We unequivocally condemn the heinous attacks perpetrated by Hamas on October 7th. We hope and pray for the safe and immediate return of all hostages. Our support for Israel and the Jewish people remains resolute. We join in prayers for peace in the region, aspiring to a future where Gaza is free from Hamas…
… “We firmly agree with our constituents within the Jewish community that California should take a stronger stance by defining antisemitism. We urge you to consider incorporating the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism into your legislative package. Our caucus stands ready to collaborate with you in implementing this definition to better protect the Jewish community and to send a resounding message that antisemitism is intolerable in California.” …
The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition:
“Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.” Click here to learn more about the IHRA’s mission.