A recent study from the Prevention League has revealed that a significant majority of Jewish faculty members at universities have witnessed anti-Semitic attitudes and actions, not just from students but also from fellow staff and recognized campus groups.
Many Jewish employees, both current and former, shared experiences of “patterns of hostility, institutional inaction, and personal casualties.” The ADL worked together with the Academic Engagement Network on this report.
From those surveyed, a notable 72.3% reported witnessing “anti-Semitic activity or statements” from university faculty, administrators, or staff.
Additionally, 44% of participants were aware of organized groups on campus advocating for Palestinian justice. However, a high percentage, 77.2%, noted that these groups were involved in “anti-Israel programming.” This included organizing protests (79.4%) and endorsing anti-Israel sales campaigns (84.8%).
The Trump administration has positioned its fight against anti-Semitism on campuses as a key aspect of domestic policy, including reclaiming billions in federal funds from institutions like Harvard, Columbia, and Northwestern.
One faculty member mentioned their colleagues overwhelmingly supported an application to seek the dismissal of the university president after students disbanded a pro-Palestinian protest they had attempted to hold.
In another instance, an individual described feeling excluded by the DEI Committee, stating that their perceived Zionism led to them being overlooked and disrespected.
Another respondent highlighted that the chair of their department created an environment laden with pro-Palestinian propaganda, stating it felt like a “camp” filled with various slogans.
One Jewish faculty member recounted a moment when, after opposing some actions, around 50 individuals were mobilized to verbally attack them, resulting in a hostile atmosphere in their department that kept them from participating in events.
The Trump administration has criticized universities for not curbing violent anti-Israel protests, framing the battle against campus anti-Semitism as a vital domestic policy, which led to funding cuts for schools due to their refusal to oppose Hamas or what was viewed as support for terrorism.
These funding reductions have seen several notable resignations, including university presidents and numerous faculty and staff roles.
The FJP did not respond to requests for comments regarding these issues.
