Justice Department Addresses Antisemitism in Jewish Communities
The chairman of the Justice Department’s Antisemitism Task Force, Leo Terrell, is embarking on a 15-city tour across the nation, focusing on Jewish communities. He expresses a serious commitment to tackling antisemitism directly.
In a conversation with Fox News Digital, Terrell pointed out that local leaders have often fallen short in responding to the threats faced by Jewish Americans in various settings—be it schools, workplaces, or places of worship.
“The entire idea behind this tour is to go to where the issues exist, to understand their requirements, and to link them with federal resources,” Terrell mentioned. “Antisemitism is prevalent now, and we must find solutions for moving forward.”
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The “American Tour Against Hate” commenced on October 14 in Michigan, featuring representatives from the Justice Department, FBI, and Labor Department convening with Jewish residents, students, educators, and religious figures. These officials discussed antisemitism in workplaces and schools, as well as enforcing hate crime laws.
Terrell emphasized that this tour aims to connect with communities that feel overlooked by local authorities, directly introducing them to federal assistance.
“We had the FBI present at the first meeting because certain cities haven’t prosecuted hate crimes,” he indicated, naming Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco, New York, and Detroit without specifying particular cases.
Each stop on the tour is set to feature a public gathering followed by visits to synagogues, Jewish schools, and community centers.
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“The tour really consists of two days,” Terrell explained. “We host a two-hour event inviting the community. And, you know what follows? The next day, I dedicate my time entirely to engaging with the Jewish community.”
This tour comes at a time when Jews are disproportionately targeted in hate crimes motivated by religious beliefs. Latest FBI statistics revealed 1,528 single-bias anti-Jewish hate crime incidents reported in 2025, with over 62% of victims being targeted due to anti-Jewish bias.
Terrell sees safeguarding Jewish students and religious communities as a “24-7 obligation,” which spans from colleges to K-12 institutions and synagogues. He also criticized the financial strain Jewish institutions encounter regarding security expenses, dubbing it a “Jewish tax.”
Universities are a significant focus for Terrell. He cautioned university officials that federal scrutiny will persist if Jewish students are left unprotected, indicating that possible violations won’t vanish with a change in leadership.
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“All these campus heads are on notice,” he said. “I think they’re trying to outlast the current administration, but that’s not going to happen.”
He added, “If they neglect the wellbeing of Jewish American students, we’ll hold each school accountable, as these are ongoing violations,” emphasizing his straightforward approach. “No deals should be made with these individuals; they must be compelled to face legal action to safeguard Jewish American students.”
When asked about professors who may allegedly foster harassment, Terrell mentioned overseas influences on campuses.
“There’s a significant influx of funding from abroad that’s impacting the administration, faculty, and what I refer to as professional harassers,” he stated.
In response to whether foreign funding was under investigation, Terrell noted, “That’s one of the instruments we’re using.”
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“The effect of overseas money on college campuses—and really throughout the country—is an area of concern,” he said, emphasizing that it’s under investigation.
Terrell also called for greater involvement from young Christians, having recently addressed over 200 students at a Christian Leaders Summit Forum in Virginia hosted by the Combat Antisemitism Movement.
He remarked that this gathering was “perhaps the most crucial meeting I’ve ever attended in my role,” highlighting the importance of the students’ youth and faith.
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“This battle against antisemitism needs to encompass everyone in this country,” he emphasized. “It’s not merely a Jewish issue. It’s an American issue—one that concerns western civilization.”
“I need these young people to join me on stage, demonstrating solidarity with the Jewish community and all Americans in this fight against antisemitism,” he continued. He stressed that religious freedom should be guaranteed for all.
When asked what Jewish Americans feeling neglected could expect from him, Terrell encouraged them to reach out for assistance.
“I will never turn anyone away,” he assured. “Contact my office, contact the Department of Justice.”
