On the anniversary of Kristallnacht, State Senator Lori Berman (D- Palm Beach) and State Representative Rita Harris (D – Orlando) re-filed Senate Bill 396 and House Bill 387, which would annually proclaim “Holocaust Remembrance Day” in the State of Florida.
If passed, SB 396/HB 387 would require the Governor to annually proclaim “Holocaust Remembrance Day” in public buildings and schools. “Holocaust Remembrance Day” would be recognized during Florida’s Holocaust Education Week, which coincides with the anniversary of Kristallnacht, an event that is seen as the catalyst to the Holocaust.
“Given the alarming rise in anti-Semitism, it’s vital that the state of Florida takes every available measure to continue education on the history of the Holocaust. I am proud to sponsor this legislation with Representative Harris and look forward to bipartisan support from both chambers” said Senator Berman
According to the Anti-Defamation League, extremist anti-Semitic events have been on the rise in Florida and across the country in recent years. Since 2020, harassment, vandalism, and assault rooted in anti-Semitism have more than doubled in Florida. State lawmakers have recently passed legislation to condemn anti-Semitism, though the sponsors believe local action is needed as anti-Semitism on the rise.
“Over the last few years, we’ve seen an increase in anti-Semitic activity in the State of Florida. My District, which is home to a diverse and dynamic community, has been targeted more than once with anti-Semitic literature drops, hateful graffiti in schools, and families being harassed outside of a Chabad. It is important that we continue to take a stance that not only recognizes the Holocaust, but the continued effects of anti-Semitism on our communities,” said Representative Harris.
If passed, Holocaust Remembrance Day would be recognized annually in November. Florida’s legislative session is set to begin on January 9, 2024.
