Kraft, a Columbia University alumnus, is using his platform to raise awareness about the rise in anti-Semitism on college campuses and is urging Americans to speak out against hate.
New England Patriots team owner Robert Kraft is imploring Americans to speak out against anti-Semitism and hatred at college campuses across the U.S. in recent weeks.
Kraft appeared on Fox News Channel's "Hannity" Wednesday night as he prepares to release full-page ads in several newspapers across the country later this week.
"I think our universities were one of our competitive advantages as a country, and I think what's going on now throughout America is scaring a lot of people," Kraft said.
"They want to know we're going to win this battle. And I just ask, ‘Are you good listeners who care about this country to speak up now?’ Universities used to be where you had critical debate and different points of view. We didn't teach hate and intimidation."
Kraft, who attended Columbia University, will take out ads in newspapers on behalf of his Foundation to Combat Antisemitism. His foundation released a Super Bowl ad this year to raise awareness about antisemitism and other causes.
"The reason I took these ads out (is) I want people to know that good people — and they've come to our foundation — they really care, and they have to speak up and not be silent – the way Martin Luther King spoke about it with (Clarence B. Jones)," he explained.
"I'm the biggest beneficiary of what America has to offer. I got a full academic scholarship to Columbia. I dreamt big dreams. I went through tough times, but it's the greatest country in the world. And I'm privileged, among other things, to own an NFL franchise in my hometown. I didn't have a car until I was 25. I want to keep those values alive for everyone that comes to this country."
Kraft called for "empathy," not hatred.
"We all know there's a lot of hatred in the world today," he said. "But we can't let it win. We can't let it divide us. We need to come together as a country and fight for what's right. We need to fight for the things that make America great – like freedom, equality, and justice for all."
Kraft's comments come as anti-Semitism has been on the rise on college campuses across the U.S. in recent years. According to the Anti-Defamation League, there were more than 2,700 anti-Semitic incidents on college campuses in 2021, up from 1,900 in 2020.
The incidents have included vandalism, harassment, and assault. They have targeted Jewish students, faculty, and staff.
In response to the rise in anti-Semitism, Kraft has been working to raise awareness about the issue. He has spoken out publicly and has met with Jewish leaders to discuss the problem.
Kraft's efforts are part of a larger movement to combat anti-Semitism on college campuses. The Anti-Defamation League has launched a campaign called "Not on Our Campus" to combat anti-Semitism and other forms of hate on college campuses.
The campaign includes resources for students, faculty, and staff to help them identify and respond to anti-Semitic incidents. It also includes a pledge that students and faculty can sign to show their commitment to fighting hate on campus.
The rise in anti-Semitism on college campuses is a serious problem. But it is one that we can solve if we all work together. We need to speak out against hate. We need to educate ourselves and others about anti-Semitism. And we need to work to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment on our campuses.
Kraft's comments are a reminder that we all have a role to play in combating anti-Semitism. We need to be brave and speak out when we see hate. We need to be inclusive and welcoming to all students, regardless of their background. And we need to work together to create a more just and equitable society for all.
