AUSTIN, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott reaffirmed Texas’ commitment to fighting antisemitism by sending a strong message to higher education institutions across the state. In a letter addressed to colleges and universities, the Governor emphasized the importance of ensuring a safe learning environment for Jewish students and staff, and reminded these institutions to comply with his Executive Order targeting antisemitism.
“Antisemitism has no place in Texas, and there is zero tolerance for such acts on our college campuses,” Governor Abbott stated.
His letter comes as Texas nears the one-year anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attack in Israel, amid ongoing tensions in Gaza. Abbott stressed the need for vigilance, urging educational institutions to continue taking proactive measures to prevent antisemitism and maintain a safe, inclusive environment for Jewish students, faculty, and staff.
Actions Taken to Combat Antisemitism
In March, Governor Abbott issued an Executive Order mandating that all Texas higher education institutions review and revise their free speech policies to address rising antisemitism. This includes enforcing policies that punish antisemitic rhetoric and acts and incorporating the definition of antisemitism within free speech guidelines. These steps are part of the state’s broader efforts to create safer campuses and protect the Jewish community.
Strengthening Security and Support for Israel
Governor Abbott has also taken numerous actions to support Israel and enhance the security of Jewish communities in Texas, particularly in light of the ongoing violence in Israel caused by Hamas. Key initiatives include:
- Allocating over $4 million in grants to 31 Jewish organizations for security improvements.
- Directing the Texas Department of Public Safety to coordinate with local and federal agencies to ensure heightened public safety across the state.
- Issuing an Executive Order prohibiting Texas state agencies from purchasing goods produced in the Gaza Strip or from entities connected to Hamas.
- Ordering Texas flags to be lowered to half-staff in remembrance of lives lost during the conflict in Israel.
- Enhancing educational resources to increase awareness of the Israel-Hamas conflict for Texas students.
Longstanding Support for the Jewish Community
Governor Abbott’s efforts to combat antisemitism and support the Jewish community extend well beyond recent events. Under his leadership, the state established the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission and awarded over $19 million in security grants to religious institutions, including synagogues. Additionally, Texas has banned all state agencies from doing business with companies that boycott Israel.
“Texas will continue to stand with Israel and the Jewish community in the fight against antisemitism,” Abbott reaffirmed, highlighting his administration’s ongoing commitment to both security and education in the face of growing global challenges.
