What’s happening

Columbia University is being urged to take decisive action against two student groups, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Jewish Voices for Peace (JVP), in the wake of antisemitic chants during a recent event that allegedly promoted violence against Jews.

Why it matters

The International Legal Forum (ILF), an Israel-based legal network, has raised alarms about chants heard at the event, which they say are calls for violence and genocide. The chants are seen as creating a dangerous atmosphere for Jewish students and staff, and the ILF’s concerns bring into focus the university’s responsibility to maintain a safe, non-discriminatory environment.

The big picture

The ILF has cited Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, emphasizing Columbia University’s obligations to protect students from discrimination. The demand includes not only a condemnation of the December 11th event but also a permanent ban on the SJP and JVP student groups from the campus.

Columbia’s response

A Columbia University spokesperson stated that the event was unsanctioned and highlighted that the university has suspended the groups for not following rules. While specific disciplinary actions were not disclosed, the spokesperson affirmed the university’s commitment to enforcing policies to ensure community safety.

What’s next

Columbia University, which had already announced the creation of an Antisemitism Task-Force, faces close scrutiny in how it addresses these allegations and whether it will uphold its stated commitment to combating antisemitism and violence on campus.

This story was first published on jpost.com.