Colleges Need a Summer 'Do-Over' to Combat Antisemitism and Protect Free Speech on Campuses

Antisemitic incidents on college campuses have skyrocketed in recent years, with a 321% increase in 2023. In light of these alarming statistics, Shai Goldberg-Kellman, a Jewish student at Brandeis University, argues that colleges need a summer 'do-over' to address the issue and ensure the safety and well-being of Jewish students.

The arrest of Jenna Kandeel, a University of Delaware student who allegedly went on an antisemitic tirade, is just one example of the growing problem of antisemitism on college campuses. Kandeel is accused of spitting on and destroying a memorial honoring Holocaust victims, while shouting vulgar profanities.

This incident highlights the need for colleges to take immediate action to address antisemitism and protect free speech. Shai Goldberg-Kellman, a Jewish student at Brandeis University, believes that a summer 'do-over' is necessary to develop comprehensive strategies for combating hate and safeguarding the rights of all students.

"Colleges need to use the summer months to engage in deep reflection and dialogue about how to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for Jewish students," Goldberg-Kellman said. "We need to develop concrete plans for addressing antisemitism, supporting Jewish students, and promoting free speech."

One area of focus should be on education and awareness. Colleges should implement mandatory anti-bias training for all students, faculty, and staff. This training should provide a comprehensive understanding of antisemitism, its history, and its impact on Jewish communities.

Additionally, colleges should establish clear policies and procedures for reporting and responding to antisemitic incidents. These policies should be widely publicized and enforced consistently.

It is also crucial to foster a sense of community among Jewish students and provide them with support and resources. Colleges should create Jewish student unions, establish safe spaces, and offer counseling services tailored to their needs.

"Jewish students deserve to feel safe and welcome on their campuses," Goldberg-Kellman said. "Colleges have a responsibility to create an environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally."

While it is important to combat antisemitism, it is equally important to protect free speech. Colleges must strike a delicate balance between addressing hate speech and upholding the First Amendment rights of all students.

"Free speech is a cornerstone of higher education," Goldberg-Kellman said. "However, we cannot tolerate speech that incites violence or hatred against any group of people."

Colleges should establish clear guidelines for what constitutes hate speech and provide training to students and faculty on how to identify and report it. They should also create mechanisms for addressing complaints of hate speech in a fair and impartial manner.

The summer 'do-over' proposed by Goldberg-Kellman is an essential step towards making college campuses more inclusive and welcoming for all students. By engaging in deep reflection, developing comprehensive strategies, and fostering a sense of community, colleges can create a safe and supportive environment where Jewish students can thrive.