East Idaho Times

U.S. Senator Mike Crapo of Idaho has released a statement in honor of the 79th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp and International Holocaust Remembrance Day. In his statement, Crapo remembers the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust and millions of other victims of Nazi hatred programs.

Crapo acknowledges the unfortunate reality that Jewish hate still exists in the world today, emphasizing the need to act on the principle of "Never Again." He points to the rise of national and global antisemitic behavior following the Hamas terrorist attack in Israel on October 7, 2023. This increase in hatred poses a threat to the lives of Jewish people not only in the United States but also across the world.

Expressing his strong condemnation, Crapo denounces the groups that endorse antisemitic behavior and the attacks on the Jewish community. He reiterates his support for Israel's right to defend itself, particularly against terrorist threats like Hamas. Crapo emphasizes the special bond between the United States and Israel, stating that efforts to support Israel must continue. He also emphasizes the need to combat antisemitic behavior both at home and abroad, pledging his commitment to supporting such efforts.

As a member of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, Crapo has actively participated in various initiatives to address the rise of antisemitic behavior. Some of these efforts include urging the Biden Administration to protect Jewish students on college campuses, calling for accountability from the U.S. Education Department in combating antisemitic behavior, and addressing the rising rates of antisemitism in K-12 schools. Crapo has also demanded that Harvard University condemn statements supporting Hamas' attack on Israel, called for an investigation into pro-Hamas criminals who vandalized a veterans cemetery, and strongly condemned the United Nations for its inaction regarding Hamas's widespread sexual violence against women in Israel.

Additionally, Crapo has raised concerns over the resurgence of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement on college campuses, highlighting the need to address this issue.

In conclusion, Senator Mike Crapo's statement on Holocaust Remembrance Day emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring the victims of the Holocaust while also addressing the ongoing issue of antisemitic behavior. Crapo's commitment to supporting Israel and combating antisemitism is evident in his various efforts to address the rise of hatred and promote a safe and inclusive environment for all.