Opinion: Why is the California Teachers Association fighting an antisemitism bill?

"Antisemitic incidents in California schools have risen more than 430% over the past five years, according to the ADL. And according to the FBI, in 2024, 70% of all faith-based hate crimes were committed against the Jewish community. As a father with children in public schools, I see firsthand how this hate is seeping into the classroom. Jewish students and educators, in particular, are facing rising levels of ostracization, bullying, threats and even acts of violence."

"Although state and federal anti-discrimination and anti-racism laws exist, they have proven ineffective when it comes to addressing antisemitic racism and Jew hatred experienced by our children, families and educators in California's K-12 education system. That is why a new piece of legislation Assembly Bill 715 was introduced by a coalition of over 60 Jewish organizations representing the overwhelming majority of California's Jewish community. Accountability needed AB 715 is also the priority bill of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus."

Antisemitic incidents in California schools have increased dramatically, with a reported more than 430% rise over five years and Jewish targets comprising 70% of faith-based hate crimes in 2024. Jewish students and educators face ostracization, bullying, threats and violence in K-12 classrooms. Existing state and federal anti-discrimination and anti-racism laws have not adequately addressed antisemitic racism in schools. Assembly Bill 715, introduced by a coalition of over 60 Jewish organizations and designated a priority by the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, would strengthen protections by setting classroom standards, increasing local school agency accountability, and instituting teacher and administrator training. The California Teachers Association opposes the bill and has mobilized resources to challenge it.

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