STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Human and Social Needs
AGENDA DATE: April 26, 2023
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): All
DEPARTMENT: Office of Equity and Inclusion
EXECUTIVE: M. Elizabeth Cedillo-Pereira
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SUBJECT
Title
Authorize the adoption of the Confronting and Combating Antisemitism in Our Communities Resolution that directs the City Manager to (1) prepare a briefing for the Workforce, Education, and Equity Committee on potential code amendments and updated City policies considering the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism and its anti-bias examples; and (2) to use the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism and the eleven examples as an educational tool for identifying and addressing antisemitism and as part of City employee discrimination and anti-bias training - Financing: No cost consideration to the City (see Fiscal Information)
Body
BACKGROUND
IHRA, by consensus vote of its member states, adopted a Working Definition of Antisemitism on May 26, 2016, which has become the internationally recognized, authoritative definition for use by governments and international organizations. Subsequently, the State of Texas adopted the IHRA Working Definition in June 2021.
Mayor Eric Johnson formed the Anti-Hate Advisory Council, whose mission is to advise on ways the City can respond to new threats and old prejudices, help facilitate meaningful dialogue between people, and to increase tolerance and understanding in Dallas. Additionally, Mayor Johnson is a signatory on the Mayors United Against Antisemitism, a joint initiative between the American Jewish Committee and the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
Resolution will be submitted for approval on April 26th, 2023. Upon approval of the resolution, City Manager will begin engaging the City Attorney’s Office to review city policies considering the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism and the 11 examples. Additionally, City Staff will develop a training and schedule for implementation. The Workforce Education and Equity Committee will receive a briefing to provide updates and progress made.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
On April 10, 2023, the Confronting and Combating Antisemitism in Our Communities Resolution was voted for approval to be recommended for Council’s consideration and adoption by the Workforce Education and Equity Committee.
FISCAL INFORMATION
No cost consideration to the City. There will be no fiscal implications for passage of the Resolution: Confronting and Combating Antisemitism in Our Communities itself as the fiscal impact will be derived from the various participating city departments.