By Elyse Apel
The Center Square

The Anti-Defamation League recently named Colorado one of nine states “leading the way” on combatting antisemitism.

The Jewish Policy Index was conducted by the ADL and assessed states based on their policies protecting Jewish communities.

“Across the nation and the world we have seen a concerning and unacceptable rise in antisemitism and antisemitic terror attacks,” said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. “Such hate and violence has no place in our Colorado For All, and that is why Colorado is leading the way to combat these trends and protect Coloradans’ right to worship how you want, making Colorado safer.”

On the index, Colorado had an alignment score of 66. That ranked the state eighth nationally, but well below some of the top states like California (a 94 alignment score) and Virginia (an 89 alignment score).

ADL said this index is unique in how it goes about ranking states.

“Unlike assessments that might rank states based on their overall environment for Jewish residents, the JPI focuses specifically on evaluating the policy landscape in each state,” ADL stated. “The JPI serves as a vital resource for policymakers, educators, advocates and community leaders committed to fostering inclusive environments and ensuring robust legislative and policy measures are in place to fight antisemitism.”

The index had three policy areas it evaluated: prioritize fighting antisemitism, educate about the Jewish experience and protect Jewish communities.

In the latter two, Colorado was ranked as a leading state. In the area of fighting antisemitism, it was listed as a “progressing state.”

Polis said there are more improvements that Colorado should make.

“I am thrilled that the Anti-Defamation League has recognized Colorado as a national leader in fighting antisemitism, but there is much more to do,” he said.

To improve on its score, the ADL said the state would need to implement an overall state strategy, an antisemitism task force, a Holocaust education commission and prohibit masked harassment.

Currently Colorado is home to approximately 110,400 Jewish residents, which represents 1.9% of the state’s total population.

Antisemitic incidents have been on the rise in recent years. In 2022, 71 incidents were reported, increasing to 198 in 2023 and 279 in 2024.

“Israel-related incidents accounted for 182 incidents (65% of total), which puts the state above the national average,” the index said.

This comes after a recent incident in Boulder made national news. In June, Mohamed Sabry Soliman wounded 15 on during what authorities say was a terrorist attack at a pro-Israel demonstration. One woman later died from her injuries, as previously reported by The Center Square.

Soliman faces both state and federal charges, including hate crime charges.