In the wake of a recent rise in antisemitic incidents on college campuses, a Jewish student at Brandeis University calls for a summer "do-over" to address the issue and protect free speech. The article explores the recent hate crime charge against a University of Delaware student who allegedly destroyed a Holocaust memorial and shouted antisemitic slurs, highlighting the need for universities to take concrete steps to combat antisemitism.
Colleges Need a Summer 'Do-Over' to Address Antisemitism and Protect Free Speech
In the wake of a recent surge in antisemitic incidents on college campuses, Jewish students are calling for a summer "do-over" to address the issue and protect free speech. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reported a 361% increase in antisemitic attacks between October 7, 2023, and January 7, 2024, with antisemitic incidents on college campuses specifically jumping 321%.
These incidents have created a climate of fear and intimidation for Jewish students, who often feel unsafe on their own campuses. A recent survey by the Jewish on Campus (JOC) organization found that 61% of Jewish students have experienced or witnessed antisemitism during the past academic year.
In response to these concerns, Shai Goldberg-Kellman, a Jewish student at Brandeis University, has called for a summer "do-over" to allow universities to develop and implement strategies to combat antisemitism and protect free speech.
"We need a summer do-over," Goldberg-Kellman said. "We need to figure out how to combat antisemitism on our campuses and protect free speech."
Goldberg-Kellman's call for action has been echoed by other Jewish students and organizations. The JOC has launched a campaign called "Protect Jewish Students" that calls on universities to take concrete steps to address antisemitism.
The ADL has also called on universities to take a more proactive approach to combating antisemitism. In a recent letter to university presidents, ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt urged universities to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, which provides a framework for identifying and addressing anti-Jewish hatred.
Some universities have already begun to take steps to address antisemitism. The University of California, Berkeley has created a new position of Anti-Semitism Education and Outreach Coordinator. The University of Michigan has partnered with the ADL to provide training for faculty and staff on how to identify and respond to antisemitism.
However, more needs to be done. The summer "do-over" provides universities with an opportunity to develop and implement comprehensive plans to combat antisemitism and protect free speech.
This includes:
Adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism
Providing training for faculty and staff on how to identify and respond to antisemitism
Creating safe spaces for Jewish students
Working with Jewish organizations to develop educational programs
Enforcing campus policies against antisemitism
By taking these steps, universities can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their religion or background.
