Anti-Semitism in the United States: ADL Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents in 2013

The Anti-Defamation League's annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents recorded 751 anti-Semitic incidents across the United States in 2013, a 19% decrease from the 2012 figure of 927.

The 2013 incidents included:

• 31 Anti-Semitic Assaults (up from 17 in 2012)
• 405 cases of anti-Semitic harassment, threats and events (down from 440 in 2012)
• 315 cases of anti-Semitic vandalism (down from 440 in 2012)

“It is encouraging that in the past few years we have seen a fairly consistent decline in the number of anti-Semitic incidents in the United States,” said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. “The falling number of incidents targeting Jews is another indication of just how far we have come in finding full acceptance in society, and it is a reflection of how much progress our country has made in shunning bigotry and hatred.”

Although anti-Semitic incidents decreased as a whole, anti-Semitic sentiment still permeates through society. While anti-Semitic incidents in general decreased, anti-Semitic assaults increased by almost 50%, up to 31 in 2013 from 17 the previous year.

In certain states, anti-Semitic incidents increased in frequency when compared to the 2012 figures. Connecticut, Michigan, Ohio, and Texas all reported increases in anti-Semitic activities during 2013. New York and California topped the list of states with the most anti-Semitic incidents, although they were both still experiencing a decline from previous figures.

2013 was a quiet year for anti-Israel sentiment and demonstrations as well, because Israel was not involved in any conflicts with the Palestinians during the year.

The ADL annual anti-Semitism audit made a point of addressing anti-Semitic bullying in schools, detailing that the ADL had continued to hear an ever increasing number of complaints about children and young adults engaging in anti-Semitic behavior.

Sources: Anti-Defamation League