Gavin Newsom, Governor of California | Official website
California has been recognized as the top state in the fight against antisemitism, according to a new report from the Anti-Defamation League’s Jewish Policy Index. The index systematically assesses state-level policies aimed at combating antisemitism and found that California leads the nation in prioritizing efforts to counter anti-Jewish hate, educate residents about Jewish experiences, and protect Jewish communities.
With more than 1 million Jewish residents, California received a score of 94 on the index. This ranking reflects measures taken by Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration to address antisemitism through both policy and education initiatives.
“I am proud that California has been recognized as a champion in the fight against antisemitism and hate. As we celebrate this milestone, I want to reiterate my Administration’s commitment to continuing the fight against anti-Jewish violence and bigotry and promise to fight hate in all its forms,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
The recognition comes amid criticism of actions by former President Donald Trump related to UCLA funding. State officials claim these actions are unrelated to protecting Jewish students but instead attempt to pressure institutions that resist outside control.
Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), Co-Chair of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, stated: “In California, we’re prioritizing the fight against antisemitism with strong new laws and meaningful budget investments. We appreciate Governor Newsom’s strong partnership and know that he will continue to be a steadfast ally in our efforts to fight anti-Jewish hate and protect all of our diverse communities.”
Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), also Co-Chair of the Caucus, commented: “Antisemitism — often called ‘the oldest hatred’ — is real and growing. Jews are severely targeted, and it has to stop. I’m proud that California has been so proactive in enacting policies to fight antisemitism. Unlike Donald Trump, who disingenuously uses antisemitism as a weapon to accomplish his authoritarian goals, California is actually doing the work to deal with antisemitism at its root.”
Recent efforts include increased funding for nonprofit security grants and expanded Holocaust education resources across schools statewide. The Commission on the State of Hate, backed by the Civil Rights Department, is collaborating with UCLA researchers on what it calls the first state-sponsored survey measuring hate prevalence across California. Since its formation, this commission has worked with community groups at nearly 200 events across 66 cities for outreach and training.
On Holocaust Remembrance Day in January 2025, the Governor’s Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education released a study examining local implementation of genocide education programs throughout California.
In April 2024, Governor Newsom's administration released the Golden State Plan to Counter Antisemitism, which outlines steps for addressing discrimination against Jews statewide.
Legislative initiatives have also played a role:
- SB 1287 requires universities within CSU—and requests UC campuses—to update codes of conduct prohibiting harassment or discrimination creating hostile environments.
- SB 1277 established professional development for teachers focused on genocide education.
- AB 2925 set requirements for anti-discrimination training at public colleges receiving state aid.
- AB 2867 created legal protections helping recover property lost due to political persecution.
- SB 153 prohibits classroom curricula subjecting students to unlawful discrimination while allowing complaints processes for violations.
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