House Republicans accuse the American Psychological Association of antisemitism, threaten accreditation

Republicans in the House Education and Workforce Committee accused the American Psychological Association (APA) of antisemitism in a 22-page report Thursday.

The report examines public Listservs and internal communications at the leading organization representing U.S. psychologists in the days after Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

“APA leaders have too often minimized complaints, accommodated individuals promoting antisemitic rhetoric, and embraced political approaches to psychology that deepen divisions within the profession,” the Republican lawmakers wrote in the report.

In a Listserv after the attack, some members said Hamas was “protecting civilians” and deserved “kudos.” Another said Oct. 7 was and is “the only signs of life and resistance” for Palestinians, according to the report.

The report also detailed pushback against Jewish psychologists who wanted to create an official subgroup — similar to other groups APA has allowed for Black and Arab psychologists — because they “benefitted from white privilege.”

House Republicans recommended taking away APA’s accreditation power for college programs as a result.

Wendi Williams, the president of the APA, denied the allegations and said the group “unequivocally condemns antisemitism in all its forms.”

“Since these concerns were first brought to A.P.A.’s attention, A.P.A. has taken meaningful steps to ensure that Jewish members, like all members, can participate fully and safely in the organization and the profession,” she added.