What it’s about:
Amidst an unsettling increase in antisemitic incidents on college campuses following Hamas’s October 7 attack, Times of Israel’s senior analyst, Haviv Rettig Gur, tackles this pressing issue during his North American college campus tour. With a special focus on recent data, this week’s episode of “What Matters Now” delves into the changing campus climate for Jewish students and the broader implications for Jewish engagement and perception in academia.
Why it matters:
Antisemitism on campuses is not just a problem for Jewish students; it’s a symptom of broader social tensions and a challenge to the principles of diversity and tolerance that modern educational institutions strive to uphold. Understanding the scope and impact of this issue is essential for creating inclusive academic environments and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all students, particularly in light of recent global events that have intensified these dynamics.
Key Findings:
In a comprehensive study initiated by the ADL Center for Antisemitism Research (CAR), in collaboration with Hillel International and facilitated by College Pulse, over 3,084 American college students, including 527 Jewish students from 689 campuses, were surveyed. The study aimed to evaluate the climate on campus for Jewish students both before and after the October 7 terror attacks, offering a crucial insight into the changing dynamics of campus antisemitism and its effects on student experiences and perceptions.
Changing Dynamics:
The follow-up survey conducted after the Hamas attack highlights the heightened challenges Jewish students face on campuses across America. It sheds light on the nuanced and complex nature of antisemitism in academic settings, underlining the urgent need for robust dialogue, engagement, and support mechanisms for Jewish students navigating these challenges.
What’s Being Done:
This episode of “What Matters Now” not only highlights the issue but also promotes a deeper understanding and solutions-focused discussion. The collaboration between respected institutions for this research exemplifies a step forward in addressing the complexities of campus antisemitism head-on, aiming to foster a safer and more equitable academic landscape for Jewish students.
The courage of individuals like Haviv Rettig Gur, who confronts antisemitism through dialogue and education, even in the face of opposition such as performative walkouts, cannot be understated. It represents a beacon of hope and resilience, leading the charge against growing antisemitism in academia with intellect, determination, and a commitment to justice.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.