The Situation
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is launching a new initiative called ‘Not On My Campus,’ targeting a surge in reported antisemitic incidents at colleges. This campaign aims to drive higher education institutions to take a zero-tolerance stand on antisemitism.
Why it Matters
Amidst an alarming rise in hateful acts on campuses, the safety and well-being of Jewish students are at stake. The campaign underscores the pressing need for universities to uphold their commitments to inclusivity and take concrete steps to safeguard their students from identity-based discrimination.
The Online Hub
An integral part of the initiative is an online resource center designed to empower students, parents, and alumni. It provides them with the necessary tools to advocate for increased actions against antisemitism by college administrations.
ADL’s Call to Action
Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO, has expressed the urgent necessity for comprehensive enforcement of non-discrimination policies in academic settings to combat antisemitism. ADL has also delineated specific measures academics can adopt for a more supportive environment for Jewish students, such as task forces against campus antisemitism, revised security protocols, and extensive antisemitism awareness training within Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.
Assessment and Accountability
To add an analytical dimension to the effort, ADL is developing an evaluation tool to measure antisemitism on individual campuses. This will assist in publishing an annual “report card” to inform decisions by potential students, parents, and donors regarding colleges’ commitment to fighting antisemitism.
Fresh Legal Support Measures
As a recent alliance, the ADL and other organizations launched the Campus Antisemitism Legal Line (CALL), offering free legal services to those encountering antisemitism in academic environments.
Incidents on a Disturbing Rise
According to the ADL, over 500 instances of antisemitism occurred on U.S. campuses between October 7 and the release date, coinciding with a significant uptick in such incidents globally since Hamas’ attacks. Survey results further revealed the sketchy safety feelings Jewish students now harbor about their campuses.
The Bottom Line
The ADL’s extensive measures, including CALL and the proactive ‘Not On My Campus’ campaign, are a clarion call for action against antisemitism in universities and reaffirm ADL’s unwavering stance for Jewish student security and inclusivity.
This story was first published on jpost.com.