In a powerful declaration at a conference on antisemitism, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon announced that the Department of Justice is taking decisive action to dismantle organizations behind disruptive synagogue protests and other antisemitic activities across the nation.

Speaking at The George Washington University Program on Extremism conference, Dhillon outlined an aggressive strategy that goes beyond prosecuting individual protesters to targeting the entire infrastructure supporting these activities.

The assistant attorney general emphasized that many of these organizations are involved in multiple unlawful activities, including obstruction of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, painting a picture of coordinated efforts that extend beyond antisemitic attacks.

Dhillon shared troubling feedback from Jewish communities across America, stating that they “feel like they’re under a coordinated attack and that authorities aren’t doing enough to help them.” She expressed her shame “as an American, to hear that groups have acted with impunity.”

Groundbreaking Use of FACE Act

A significant development in the DOJ’s strategy is the expanded application of the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. Originally used primarily in cases involving abortion clinic protests, the Trump administration’s DOJ has successfully applied it to protect synagogues and other houses of worship.

The department’s prosecution of individuals involved in a demonstration outside New Jersey’s Congregation Ohr Torah has established a precedent that Dhillon says has “paved the way” for similar cases defending both Jewish and Christian organizations. Multiple FACE Act investigations are currently underway.

The FACE Act prohibits the use of force, threats, or obstruction to block access to reproductive health services or to obstruct the right to worship. This legal framework gives federal prosecutors powerful tools to protect religious freedom and ensure access to houses of worship.

Recognition for Campus Leadership

During her address, Dhillon also praised George Washington University President Ellen Granberg “for standing up to these attacks and being a leader in this area,” commending her efforts to push back against antisemitism on campus.

The assistant attorney general’s remarks signal a comprehensive federal response to what she characterized as coordinated attacks on Jewish communities and people of faith. With multiple investigations underway and a commitment to “swift and decisive” action, the DOJ appears determined to make good on its promise that these unlawful activities “will not stand.”