A recent independent probe commissioned by Gov. Kathy Hochul found that City University of New York (CUNY) needs a comprehensive overhaul to address the rising issue of antisemitism on its campuses. The investigation, conducted over 10 months by retired state Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman, revealed a significant number of antisemitic incidents targeting members of the CUNY community, leading to widespread feelings of insecurity among students and faculty members. The report highlighted various factors contributing to this problem, including the role of some faculty members in promoting divisiveness instead of fostering peaceful dialogue.
The 146-page report criticized certain CUNY campus presidents and faculty for either perpetuating or failing to address the hatred towards Jewish people within the public university system. It emphasized the need for faculty members to promote constructive dialogue rather than conflict and suggested that stronger leadership from college presidents is essential to combating antisemitism effectively. Additionally, the report recommended better coordination between CUNY schools, law enforcement, and security officers to enhance public safety on campuses and prevent potentially violent protests.
The investigative report presented 13 recommendations aimed at tackling antisemitism and discrimination within the CUNY system, many of which were deemed essential for immediate implementation. These suggestions included creating a specialized center for addressing antisemitism and other forms of discrimination, hiring a dedicated monitor to oversee hate-related issues, establishing a victims’ advocate program to streamline complaint investigations, and enhancing diversity training for officers investigating discrimination claims. The report also called for the revision of outdated rules and policies to address issues related to social media conduct and protest protocols.
While the probe focused specifically on CUNY, it noted that antisemitic incidents have also occurred at private universities in New York. Despite not cataloguing many specific incidents, the report mentioned a particularly egregious incident involving the harassment of Jewish students at Baruch College by protesters at a kosher restaurant. CUNY Chancellor Felix Matos Rodriguez expressed his commitment to implementing the report’s recommendations to combat hate and discrimination effectively, acknowledging the university’s responsibility to create a more inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff.
Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, executive vice president of the New York Board of Rabbis and a member of CUNY’s Advisory Council on Jewish Life, emphasized the importance of eradicating forms of intimidation and discrimination on university campuses. While proud of the initiatives already in place at CUNY, he acknowledged the need for continued improvement and partnership to ensure a campus environment free of hate. Overall, the investigative report shed light on the pressing issue of antisemitism within CUNY and underscored the importance of comprehensive reforms to address these challenges effectively.
