Governor Glenn Youngkin has released a report and set of recommendations aimed at addressing antisemitism and anti-religious bigotry in Virginia’s public schools and higher education institutions. The release fulfills requirements under Executive Order 48, which directs state agencies to take steps to prevent such incidents.
“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.”
The report comes amid concerns over increasing religious-based hate crimes in Virginia. According to data from the Virginia State Police, these crimes more than doubled in 2024, with a significant rise—over 150%—in incidents involving anti-Jewish bias.
The report summarizes measures taken under Executive Order 48 since its issuance in May. It involves collaboration among the Secretaries of Education and Public Safety & Homeland Security, the Virginia Department of Education, and the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), aiming to strengthen protections on school campuses.
“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 national incidents were cited as examples highlighting ongoing risks associated with unchecked antisemitism—including attacks during Hanukkah events abroad as well as violence targeting Jewish families in California.
“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 participated in a working group focused on combating antisemitism: “I was grateful for the opportunity to serve the Commonwealth as part of the working group to chart a path forward in combating antisemitism,” he said. “Every several days, another member of Virginia’s Jewish Community is criminally targeted due to their faith. 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 the government. It is critical that leaders across the board continue to shine a light on this problem to further the important work that our EO48 working group has put forth. Virginia is not Virginia unless minorities feel fully safe and protected in their religious communities. Now it is up to our community to advocate that this work continues.”
The new report outlines both recent initiatives taken under Executive Order 48 as well as actions throughout Governor Youngkin’s four-year term aimed at reducing antisemitic violence statewide.
The full text of the report, Executive Order 48, and Executive Order 8 are available online.
