In a recent federal court case, Judge Mark Scarsi condemned UCLA for allowing a “Jew Exclusion Zone” to operate on its campus this spring. Three Jewish UCLA students sued the college, claiming their religious rights were violated when pro-Palestinian protesters took over a portion of the campus, hindering their access to certain areas. The protesters allegedly set up barricades and checkpoints, demanding that students disavow allegiance to Israel in order to pass. UCLA officials eventually called for law enforcement to remove the barricades, but the protesters returned later with more barricades. Judge Scarsi imposed a preliminary injunction against the university, demanding that any part of the campus closed to Jewish students be closed to everyone. UCLA announced it will appeal the decision, claiming it will affect their ability to handle events on campus.
The court’s decision has major implications for government-run universities like UCLA, as it enforces the protection of religious freedoms guaranteed by the First Amendment. Private institutions, including Ivy League schools like Harvard and Columbia, are also held to the same standard due to federal funding and laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, gender, or religion. Judge Richard G. Stearns rejected Harvard’s argument that they have a First Amendment obligation to promote free speech on campus, stating that rampant antisemitism is to blame for the discrimination against Jewish students. It is suggested that trustees, alumni, and parents should withhold their support from institutions that fail to protect students from discrimination, and politicians should consider withholding public funding as well.
The issue of antisemitism on college campuses is a complex and troubling one, with current Vice President Kamala Harris facing criticism for her statements sympathizing with pro-Palestinian protesters. While she expressed rejection of some of the protesters’ points, Harris acknowledged their emotions in response to the situation in Gaza. The responsibility lies with elected officials to address and combat antisemitism, but the protection of rights for all students, including Jewish students, is enshrined in the Constitution. Judges who uphold these principles are praised for their dedication to protecting freedoms, regardless of political correctness.
The lawsuit against UCLA and similar cases at other universities highlight the prevalence of discrimination against Jewish students, which is often overlooked or inadequately addressed by administrators and faculty. If the same discrimination were directed at other minority groups, it is likely that immediate action would be taken to address the issue. The decision to impose an injunction against UCLA sends a strong message that religious freedoms must be protected on college campuses, and any form of discrimination based on race, gender, or religion will not be tolerated. Ultimately, the protection of these rights is a fundamental aspect of American democracy and must be safeguarded by all levels of government and educational institutions.
