September 18, 2024, New York, NY – The leadership of the American Jewish Congress, including Daniel Rosen, President; Jack Rosen, Chairman; Dr. Munr Kazmir, Vice President; Dr. Ben Chouake, Secretary; and Michael Melnicke, Treasurer, released the following statement:
“The American Jewish Congress is outraged by reports that Baruch College, part of the City University of New York (CUNY), considered blocking this year’s Rosh Hashanah celebration on campus due to safety concerns. Canceling Rosh Hashanah events would effectively suppress Jewish students and their celebration of their traditions, bowing to the will of antisemitic agitators.
Such a decision by Baruch College—or any other institution—would effectively legitimize and empower the antisemitic protests that have become a nightmare for many Jewish students, both in New York and across the nation. Instead of protecting Jewish students and taking action against protesters who praise terrorists, spread antisemitic hatred, and harass and harm Jewish students, the school would be turning against the victims and giving leeway to those who violate rules and propagate hate.
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year and the first of the High Holidays, is celebrated by Jews around the world. It is deeply rooted in Jewish heritage and tradition, with no connection to the conflict in Gaza. Targeting Rosh Hashanah celebrations is a vile and profoundly antisemitic act that demands condemnation from all, not validation from anyone.
CUNY and all educational institutions across the country have an obligation to ensure that Jewish students can safely and securely enjoy the festivities, however they choose to observe them. Antisemitic hate cannot prevail.”
(Photo Credit: Jimin Kim/SOPA Images/Shutterstock)
