May 3, 2024, New York, NY—The American Jewish Congress joins Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in urging Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-VT) to take action regarding the troubling rise of antisemitism on American college campuses. As the Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, Senator Cassidy’s persistent calls for a Committee hearing on this pressing issue deserve not only acknowledgment but also a swift and adequate response.
Senator Cassidy’s repeated efforts highlight a vital concern for the Jewish community, especially at this precarious time. University campuses have transformed into danger zones for Jewish students, faculty, and staff members, as protesters and agitators occupy campus buildings, chant in support of terrorism, and call for the genocide of Jews. It is deeply disappointing and frankly unacceptable that Senator Sanders has not yet convened the requested hearing to address the gravity of this situation.
While Senator Sanders prefers to merely call out antisemitism broadly, this is not the time for generalizations. What the moment calls for is proactive leadership and targeted steps to protect Jewish students and uphold the integrity of our educational institutions. That is why it is critical to hear directly from officials and other stakeholders in hearings about the steps needed to protect all students from hate and discrimination.
Senator Sanders, we strongly urge you to embrace your leadership role and take the necessary steps to ensure our campuses are safe for everyone. The plight of Jewish students who feel alone, threatened, and intimidated like never before in recent memory deserves recognition and immediate action.
