El Cajon Unanimously Adopts the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism

(El Cajon, California - March 26, 2025) — In a resounding and unanimous 5-0 vote on Tuesday, the City of El Cajon officially adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism—marking a significant step forward in the fight against rising antisemitism in the United States.

StandWithUs wholeheartedly thanks Mayor Bill Wells and the El Cajon City Council members for their courageous and principled leadership. By embracing the IHRA definition, they have taken a brave, commonsense stand to protect the Jewish community and make clear that hate has no place in their city limits.

StandWithUs also extends its deepest gratitude to the San Diego community, who showed up in strength—speaking from the heart and standing firm for the common good. Together, you sent the powerful message that antisemitism must be challenged wherever it manifests.

"This is not just a symbolic gesture," said Oz Laniado, Executive Director of StandWithUs Southwest. "Adopting the IHRA definition gives cities like El Cajon a clear and internationally recognized framework to identify and respond to antisemitism. We are proud to stand alongside the leaders and residents of El Cajon in this important victory for justice and truth."

Mayor Bill Wells noted, “this is an important and obvious step in order to protect our community. We are proud of passing the definition in our city and we encourage other cities and institutions to do the same."

The IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, already adopted by over 40 countries, over 30 U.S. states, and over 1,200 institutions worldwide, functions as a critical tool for helping governments, law enforcement, and other institutions, identify and respond to unlawful acts of antisemitism. Importantly, the IHRA Working Definition provides eleven crucial examples, helping demonstrate how antisemitism occurs in both older and newer forms.

"This is a big win for the Jewish community, which is often marginalized when it comes to hate crimes. Jews are only 2% of the U.S. population, but are targeted by 15% of all hate crimes and nearly 70% of religion-based attacks. The blatant antisemitism we are seeing today needs to be addressed, and by adopting IHRA in El Cajon, we are one step closer to having a safer living environment for Jews in the greater San Diego area," added Liat Cohen Reeis, Director of the Antisemitism Task Force, San Diego.

StandWithUs remains committed to continuing this work across the region and beyond. Today’s victory in El Cajon is a meaningful milestone—and a reminder that when communities unite, we can stand up to hate and build a better, safer future for all.

Importantly, adopting the IHRA definition does not infringe upon First Amendment (free speech) rights. It does not prohibit speech of any kind, but rather makes it easier to identify, educate about, and speak out against antisemitism. No one has a right to be free from criticism for promoting hate.