The Jewish Federation of Los Angeles is calling on universities to strengthen protections for Jewish students following a surge in anti-semitic incidents on campuses across the United States. The organization's president, Rabbi Noah Farkas, outlines a three-component strategy to address the issue, including supporting campus Jewish communities, uniting Jewish students, and ensuring universities uphold their values.
As students prepare to return to college campuses, the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles has issued an urgent call to universities to prioritize the safety and well-being of Jewish students. In an open letter, Rabbi Noah Farkas, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation Los Angeles, detailed the harrowing experiences faced by Jewish students on campuses last year, citing harassment, doxing, and denial of access to campus spaces due to their open identification as Jewish.
The letter reflects the growing concern over the rise of anti-semitism on college campuses, which has been exacerbated by the recent Israel-Hamas war and the mounting Palestinian civilian death toll. Following months of protests and unrest, the Jewish Federation's strategy aims to provide a comprehensive framework for addressing the issue, based on democratic principles and a commitment to the safety and well-being of all students.
Jewish Federation Urges Universities to Protect Jewish Students Amid Anti-Semitism
Rabbi Farkas outlined three key components of the strategy: supporting the campus Jewish community, uniting Jewish students across Los Angeles, and ensuring universities uphold their true purpose. He emphasized the need for administrators to acknowledge the incidents of harassment and discrimination against Jewish students last year, calling it a "national failure and moral tragedy."
To support campus Jewish communities, the strategy proposes providing Jewish students with resources and support systems, such as safe spaces and counseling services. By uniting Jewish students across Los Angeles, the organization aims to foster a sense of community and solidarity, while also providing a platform for students to share their experiences and advocate for their rights.
Jewish Federation Urges Universities to Protect Jewish Students Amid Anti-Semitism
Ensuring universities uphold their true purpose involves holding institutions accountable for ensuring the safety of all students. The strategy calls for universities to implement clear policies and procedures against hate speech and discrimination, and to enforce these policies swiftly and consistently. It also advocates for the creation of dedicated offices or task forces to address issues of bias and discrimination on campus.
The Jewish Federation's strategy aligns with concerns raised by students and elected officials. Former MLB star and Republican U.S. Senate candidate Steve Garvey emphasized the importance of educating Jewish students and uniting Jewish communities in the face of these challenges. He urged university leaders to take swift action to hold perpetrators accountable and create a safe environment for all students.
Jewish Federation Urges Universities to Protect Jewish Students Amid Anti-Semitism
UCLA, which experienced significant unrest and anti-semitism last year, has issued a warning to agitators that they could face consequences for their actions. However, the university has not definitively identified the specific penalties that may be imposed. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has condemned the violence on UCLA's campus, calling it "absolutely abhorrent and inexcusable."
City Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky has also spoken out against the demonstrations, stating that "everyone has a right to free speech and protest, but the situation on UCLA’s campus is out of control and is no longer safe."
Jewish Federation Urges Universities to Protect Jewish Students Amid Anti-Semitism
Nearly 2,200 anti-Israel agitators were arrested at college campuses across the United States during the riots, which forced police to use riot gear and tactical vehicles to clear tent encampments and occupied buildings. Governor Gavin Newsom has condemned anti-semitism in all its forms.
The Jewish Federation's strategy provides a timely and comprehensive roadmap for universities to address anti-semitism on campus. By supporting Jewish students, fostering community, and holding institutions accountable, the organization aims to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
