Stand Against Antisemitism: Support the IHRA Definition
WHAT WE'RE ASKING FOR
We're asking the Concord Select Board to issue a formal statement acknowledging antisemitism and embracing the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition. This widely recognized framework helps institutions identify and address antisemitism consistently. The Select Board expressed interest in doing this at its first meeting in 2026, and we want to encourage them to keep moving forward.
Sign our petition today to show community support.
Deadline to Sign: Sunday, January 25, 2026
We will deliver the petition to the Select Board at its regular meeting on Monday, January 26th. This is a significant date with International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27th.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Antisemitism is rising in Concord, Carlisle, and across Massachusetts. Our students have faced harassment, our memorials have been vandalized, and our shared community needs clarity on what antisemitism looks like so we can respond effectively.
Students at Concord-Carlisle High School have testified that acknowledging their Jewish identity requires unusual courage. That shouldn't be true in our schools or our towns.
The Select Board has an opportunity to provide clarity by embracing a practical framework that governments and institutions worldwide use to recognize and address antisemitism.
What is the IHRA definition of antisemitism?
The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) created a working definition of antisemitism that serves as a practical reference point for identifying patterns of hate.
The 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."
Key Facts:
•` Non-binding and creates no penalties
• Used by the United States government, 37 U.S. states, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the European Union, and hundreds of institutions
• Endorsed by nearby towns including Sudbury, Westford, Acton, Sharon, and Millis
• Called "the most prominent" educational tool by the Massachusetts Special Commission on Combating Antisemitism
Why Concord and Carlisle Should Act
Local Leadership: State Representative Simon Cataldo, who represents both communities, co-chaired the Massachusetts Special Commission on Combating Antisemitism which highlighted the IHRA working definition's importance. Governor Healey praised the Commission's final report as "a critical guide." Former Governor Baker endorsed the IHRA working definition in 2022.
Student Safety: A clear framework helps educators and administrators at Concord-Carlisle High School and throughout our district respond to incidents consistently and effectively.
Community Clarity: Without a shared definition, patterns of antisemitism go unrecognized and responses remain inconsistent. The IHRA working definition provides that shared language for both towns.
Practical, Not Punitive: The IHRA working definition is an educational tool, not a speech code. It doesn't curtail criticism or create enforcement mechanisms. It simply helps identify antisemitism when it occurs.
TAKE ACTION
Sign the Petition
Add your name to call on the Concord Select Board to embrace The IHRA working definition and provide the leadership this moment demands.
SIGN THE PETITION NOW
Share Your Story
Have you or your family been affected by antisemitism in Concord or Carlisle? Your voice matters. Contact us at info@concordagainstantisemitism.org
Attend Select Board Meetings and Write Your Own Letter
Public comment opportunities allow residents to speak directly to the Select Board. Check the Town of Concord website for meeting schedules and to send letters directly to Select Board members.
RESOURCES & BACKGROUND
Understanding the IHRA working definition:
• IHRA Official Definition
• American Jewish Committee: 5 Common Questions About IHRA
• Countries & Institutions That Have Adopted IHRA
Massachusetts Context:
• Massachusetts Special Commission Report
• Commonwealth of Massachusetts IHRA Endorsement
• U.S. State Department on IHRA
Local Massachusetts Towns Using IHRA:
• Acton
• Sudbury
• Westford
• Sharon
• Millis
National & International:
• 37 U.S. States Plus D.C. Use IHRA
• European Union on IHRA
QUESTIONS?
Contact Concord-Carlisle Against Antisemitism:
Email: info@concordagainstantisemitism.org
Website: ccagainstantisemitism.org
This campaign is part of CCAA's L✡ve Thy Neighbor Project, supported by Combined Jewish Philanthropies' Center for Combating Antisemitism.
