Regent Byron Brooks spearheaded a revision to the Board of Regents handbook for the use of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. This revision brings NSHE in line with the Federal Department of Education Office of Civil Rights guidelines and Presidential Executive Order 13899.
“While this revision narrowly passed with a 7-6 vote, the agenda item was brought forward with the direct support from the Israeli American Council and the Israeli American Coalition for Action,” said Brooks. “Additionally, the revision was supported by organizations such as Jewish Nevada, the ADL, End Jew Hatred, StandWithUs, a few great faculty members, brave students, and outstanding community members who came before the board during public comment to voice support for this revision. Those who opposed the revision demonstrate that, as a system of higher education, we are misaligned when it comes to inclusionary values. Nonetheless, a majority of regents are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all students, and this policy revision is a testament to that commitment.”
The IHRA definition of antisemitism is a widely recognized and accepted definition that has been adopted by numerous countries and organizations around the world. By adopting this revision, members of the NSHE Board of Regents are taking a strong stance against all forms of antisemitism and promoting a more inclusive and respectful campus environment.
This policy revision comes at a time when incidents of antisemitism are on the rise across the country, including local campuses, and sends a clear message that hate and discrimination will not be tolerated within the Nevada higher education system.
For more information about Nevada System of Higher Education’s Board of Regents, please visit nshe.nevada.edu.
