Fight College Antisemitism

Antisemitism has resurfaced with alarming intensity on college campuses across the United States, posing significant threats to Jewish students’ safety and well-being. Recent data reveals a 700% increase in anti-Semitic incidents on campuses since October 2023, with 1,854 incidents reported during the 2023–2024 academic year, compared to 290 the previous year.

A Stark Rise in Anti-Semitic Incidents: The Alarming Reality on Campuses

These incidents encompass harassment, vandalism, and physical assaults, creating hostile environments that impede Jewish students’ academic and social experiences. Notably, 73% of Jewish students have encountered some form of Antisemitism since the start of the 2023–2024 school year, with many feeling compelled to conceal their Jewish identity to avoid hostility.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) is deeply concerned about this surge in campus Antisemitism. CEO Jim Berk emphasizes the urgent need for action, stating, “We are witnessing the abject failure of universities to hold accountable those who have hijacked university campuses and failed to protect Jewish students, faculty, staff, and other supporters of Israel. Immediate action must be taken.”

SWC’s Plan of Action: Combating Antisemitism with Decisive Measures

To address this crisis, SWC advocates for the following measures:

1. University Accountability: Institutions must enforce their codes of conduct uniformly, ensuring that all students are held to the same behavioral standards. Swift action is necessary to address threats to public safety and protect the rights of all students.
2. Law Enforcement Collaboration: Private universities should engage local law enforcement, and public institutions should call emergency services to restore order and safeguard students.
3. Disciplinary Actions: Students who violate school policies through acts of Antisemitism should face appropriate consequences, including suspension or expulsion.
4. Adoption of IHRA Definition: Administrators should adopt and apply the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of Antisemitism to provide a clear framework for identifying and combating such behavior.
5. Federal Investigation: The FBI must initiate a formal investigation into campus extremism, examining ties to organized agitators and supporting student safety.

Institutional Failures Exposed: The Need for Systemic Change

The rise in anti-Semitic incidents is not isolated but part of coordinated efforts that threaten the fabric of academic institutions. For instance, at Columbia University, pro-Palestinian protests have escalated tensions, leading to Jewish students feeling unsafe and targeted.

Furthermore, a recent report by StopAntisemitism highlights that 72% of Jewish college students feel unwelcome on their campuses, with over half experiencing Antisemitism. Institutions like Cornell University and The New School received failing grades for their handling of such incidents, underscoring the systemic failure to protect Jewish students.

The Simon Wiesenthal Center is committed to combating this resurgence of hate. We call upon university officials, law enforcement agencies, and the broader community to take decisive action to ensure that campuses are safe havens for learning, free from bigotry and discrimination.

Join the Fight: Advocating for Safe and Inclusive Campuses

Join us in the fight against campus Antisemitism. Advocate for policy changes, support affected students, and promote educational initiatives that foster understanding and respect. Together, we can create an academic environment where all students feel safe and valued. Stand with the Simon Wiesenthal Center to make a tangible difference in the lives of Jewish students nationwide.