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The American non-governmental organisation StopAntisemitism has published a new report that indicates a sharp rise in anti-Semitism in US higher education institutions amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has been ongoing since October 2023. This was reported by TimeUkraineIsrael with reference to the StopAntisemitism report.
The report states that following the tragic events of 7 October, the number of anti-Semitic incidents on university campuses has reached unprecedented levels. Jewish students and professors have been harassed, threatened, and even physically assaulted, often ignored or insufficiently addressed by university administrations.
Anti-Semitic attitudes in 25 American higher education institutions
The report includes 25 universities across the country, including: American University in Washington, Baylor University (Texas), Carnegie Mellon University (Pennsylvania), Case Western Reserve University (Ohio), Clemson University (South Carolina), Colby College (Maine), Elon University (North Carolina), Emerson College (Massachusetts), Emory University (Georgia), and others. Each institution was evaluated based on four criteria: protection of students from anti-Semitism, support for Jewish student communities, attitudes towards pro-Palestinian organisations, and overall safety of Jewish students.
According to the data obtained, the situation looks disappointing:
- 55% of Jewish students reported experiencing anti-Semitism in their educational institutions;
- 43% did not feel safe to report incidents. Of those who did report, 87% were disappointed with the outcome of investigations;
- 43% hide their Jewish identity;
- 72% feel unwelcome in certain places on campuses because of their nationality;
- 69% are blamed for Israeli actions over which they have no control;
- 43% would not recommend their university to other students.
Some exceptions and problems in prestigious universities
Among the 25 institutions, two universities stand out for having lower levels of anti-Semitism – Clemson University in South Carolina and Elon University in North Carolina, where 33% and 31% of students, respectively, have experienced discrimination. Most students here feel safe and would recommend their university to friends.
Prestigious universities, including MIT, Brown, Cornell, and Stanford universities, received the lowest scores due to high levels of anti-Semitism that remain unaddressed by their administrations.
The StopAntisemitism report has caused serious concern among Jewish organisations and student communities. It is expected that this study will send an important signal to university administrations and may lead to changes in security policies and support for students experiencing discrimination.
