Several congressional lawmakers, including U.S. Reps. Jared Moskowitz, Josh Gottheimer, Kathy Manning, Anthony D’Esposito, and Mike Lawler, have condemned the rise of antisemitism on college campuses, particularly at Columbia University. The demonstrations, which began last week, have seen anti-Israel protesters briefly taking over parts of the Ivy League school campus, resulting in hundreds of arrests. Columbia University President Dr. Nemat Shafik expressed deep sadness over the actions of agitators who have formed an “encampment” on campus and have used anti-Jewish slogans and chants, causing fear and unrest among students and faculty members. The protests have brought to light the need for increased security measures and education on antisemitism within the university community.
U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz visited Columbia University over the weekend to show support for Jewish students who have expressed feeling unsafe on campus due to the demonstrations. He emphasized that bipartisan efforts within Congress will be made to address the issue of antisemitism on college campuses. Rep. Josh Gottheimer also condemned the Columbia protests, stating that the First Amendment does not grant the freedom to harass and intimidate students based on their religion. Rep. Kathy Manning called for increased education on antisemitism within the university and urged government agencies to work together to ensure the safety of Jewish students and faculty members. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito criticized the protests, particularly the chants of “death to America” and “Death to Israel,” labeling them as attacks on democracy, values, and the right of Israel to exist.
Rep. Mike Lawler expressed pride in co-sponsoring a resolution that condemns the popular pro-Palestinian saying “River to the sea chant,” which many Jews have interpreted as supporting the eradication of Israel. He pointed out that 44 members of the House opposed the measure during a vote, which he found appalling as it denies Israel’s right to exist. The lawmakers highlighted the importance of standing with Israel and its people in the face of rising antisemitism and called on universities to take the necessary steps to protect Jewish students and faculty members. They emphasized the need for government intervention and collaborative efforts to combat antisemitism on college campuses.
The protests taking place at Columbia University have brought to light the challenges faced by Jewish students and faculty members in an environment where antisemitism is on the rise. Columbia University President Dr. Nemat Shafik acknowledged the impact of the demonstrations on the campus community, expressing deep sadness over the actions of agitators and the increased tensions that have resulted. The university has announced additional security measures in response to fears for safety expressed by students across different communities. The lawmakers have called for a united effort to address the issue of antisemitism, emphasizing the need for education, enforcement of anti-harassment policies, and government intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of Jewish individuals within university settings.
The demonstrations at Columbia University have sparked a national conversation on the prevalence of antisemitism on college campuses, with lawmakers and university officials working together to address the issue. The condemnations from U.S. Reps. Jared Moskowitz, Josh Gottheimer, Kathy Manning, Anthony D’Esposito, and Mike Lawler highlight the urgency of protecting Jewish students and faculty members from harassment and intimidation. The lawmakers have called for measures to combat antisemitism and promote understanding and tolerance within educational institutions. The protests at Columbia University have prompted a reevaluation of security protocols and educational initiatives to prevent incidents of antisemitism and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all members of the university community.
