The rise in antisemitic incidents on U.S. campuses after the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7 has prompted two Modern Orthodox schools in New Jersey, Torah Academy of Bergen County and Ma’ayanot Yeshiva High School, to impose new conditions for colleges seeking to recruit their pupils. These schools are demanding that colleges provide a statement detailing their plans to ensure the safety of Jewish students on campus. This decision comes as high school seniors are finalizing their college applications, significantly impacting their choices.
The disturbing climate has also alarmed the Biden administration, resulting in a two-week deadline set by the U.S. Education Department to formulate a plan to combat this surge in campus antisemitism. The policy changes in high schools aim to pressure universities into action, with the clear message that institutions failing to meet their safety expectations will not be welcomed. Amidst this crisis, the schools are also assisting their students in understanding the campus culture regarding Israel as part of their post-graduation planning.
Universities must make the safety of ALL students a priority. Toxic antisemitic ideology should not be taught or accepted as the new norm. Supporting discrimination and terrorism of any kind is fundamentally wrong.
Make sure your lawmakers know your thoughts on this. If you want your local, state, and federal government to do something about the growing support for Hamas and other terrorist organizations, it’s time to use your voice. Sign up for Change.MillionVoices today (text MV to 80550). And share this article with your friends and family so they can stay informed on how the President is failing to protect Americans.
