Executive Director Khalid Turaani spoke at the Senate Judiciary Committee on behalf of CAIR-Ohio – Columbus | Cincinnati | Dayton alongside CAIR-Ohio Cleveland, Jewish Voices for Peace Central Ohio, and Learn and Liberate to stand against Ohio Senate Bill 297. This bill stated that Ohio would adopt the IHRA’s definition of antisemitism, which would criminalize the “conflation of Israel as a racist endeavor.”
This means that many student and community advocacy efforts, including chants such as “from the river to the sea,” would be up to the interpretation of legislators and could be deemed antisemitic under this definition. Such a move poses a serious threat to free speech and the ability to criticize the policies of a government without fear of criminal repercussions.
During his testimony, Khalid Turaani highlighted the dangers of adopting the IHRA definition, emphasizing that it conflates legitimate criticism of Israel’s government and policies with antisemitism, thereby stifling political discourse and activism. CAIR-Ohio, alongside its partners, argued that this bill undermines constitutional protections of free speech and the First Amendment while targeting advocacy for Palestinian rights.
The coalition urged lawmakers to consider the broader implications of this legislation, particularly its potential to silence marginalized communities and activists fighting for justice and human rights. Advocacy organizations reaffirmed their commitment to standing against all forms of bigotry, including antisemitism, while defending the right to hold governments accountable for their actions.
As this issue progresses, CAIR-Ohio and its allies will continue to mobilize and educate the public on the critical importance of safeguarding free speech and upholding the constitutional rights of all Ohioans.
While addressing hate is essential, this bill undermines efforts to combat genuine antisemitism by equating it with valid critiques of a foreign government. Stand with us in defending free expression and opposing this harmful legislation.
By duplicating existing laws on hate speech and violence, this bill creates unnecessary legal overlap without offering additional protection. It also introduces vague and broad definitions that could be used to suppress activism, particularly among marginalized communities, and lead to selective and discriminatory enforcement.
Read the bill as introduced here
Khalid Turaani, Executive Director of CAIR Ohio in Columbus Stated:
“While we support efforts to combat hate, including antisemitism, SB 297, as written, poses serious concerns. The bill threatens to infringe on First Amendment rights by restricting legitimate political dissent, particularly in criticism of a foreign government.”
Turaani added, “Instead of passing this legislation, we urge lawmakers to strengthen existing laws, foster dialogue, and focus on holistic, equitable approaches to combating hate and promoting justice for all communities.”
