Governor Glenn Youngkin has released a report and recommendations to address antisemitism and anti-religious bigotry in Virginia’s public schools and higher education institutions. The report fulfills the requirements of Executive Order 48, which was issued in May.
“Since Day One, I have made it clear that we will not rest until antisemitism and anti-religious bigotry are driven out of our campuses, classrooms and Commonwealth,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This report not only lays out the history of our efforts since the first days of our Administration, it also details the progress we have made since our comprehensive EO 48. While we have great work yet to do as a Commonwealth, I am proud that my team is handing off one of the strongest programs to combat antisemitism in the country to the next administration.”
According to data from Virginia State Police, there was a significant increase in religious-based hate crimes during 2024. Crimes involving anti-Jewish bias rose by more than 150%. This rise mirrors national trends where students, faculty, and families have reported growing instances of antisemitism and anti-religious bigotry on campuses.
The new report outlines steps taken under Executive Order 48. It directs several state agencies—including the Secretaries of Education and Public Safety & Homeland Security, the Virginia Department of Education, and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia—to take action aimed at preventing such acts in educational settings.
“Hate so often stems from ignorance. This is why our efforts to expand coverage of Jewish heritage and history have been so critical,” said Secretary of Education Aimee R. Guidera. “We are incredibly proud of the nation-leading actions Virginia has taken against acts of antisemitism and anti-religious bigotry in every classroom, and on every campus. This report reiterates Virginia’s deep commitment to creating learning environments where every student feels safe, respected, and welcome, and where religious freedom and human dignity are reflected every day.”
Recent violent incidents abroad and elsewhere in the United States were cited as examples highlighting ongoing concerns about unchecked antisemitism leading to violence.
“Antisemitism and all forms of anti-religious hatred and violence have no place in this great Commonwealth,” said Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Marcus Anderson. “From the outset of this Administration, we have been dedicated to fighting such bigotry and ensuring that it remains a public safety priority. I am proud of the meaningful progress we have made and encouraged by the recommendations and actions resulting from our strong, collaborative efforts.”
Rabbi Dovid Asher commented on his involvement with efforts under Executive Order 48: “I was grateful for the opportunity to serve the Commonwealth as part of the working group to chart a path forward in combating antisemitism… On day one, Governor Glenn Youngkin identified this issue as a top priority because he understood that this hatred was getting out of control and needed to be met with the full force of government… Now it is up to our community to advocate that this work continues.”
The full text of Executive Order 48 is available online along with the complete report detailing these statewide initiatives.