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College Campuses See Surge in Antisemitism

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, January 11th 2026 at 16:03 GMT by The Jerusalem Post Blogs

Sunday, January 11th, 2026

Across the United States, a disturbing trend is unfolding on college campuses: a sharp increase in antisemitic incidents is leaving Jewish students feeling increasingly unsafe and fearful. What began as isolated occurrences has escalated into a pervasive climate of anxiety, forcing institutions to grapple with a complex intersection of free speech, student safety, and the ongoing geopolitical turmoil in the Middle East.

The incidents themselves are varied and deeply concerning. Reports range from relatively minor acts of verbal harassment and vandalism to the blatant display of swastikas, the propagation of hateful imagery, and, most alarmingly, calls for violence against Jewish students. The slogan "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free," frequently used in protests related to the Israel-Hamas conflict, is widely recognized as antisemitic when used in this context, and its repeated appearance on campuses has profoundly unsettled many Jewish students. Specific instances, such as the arrest of a Cornell University student for threatening Jewish students and advocating violence, and reports of similar incidents at Harvard University, paint a stark picture of the escalating problem.

The psychological impact on Jewish students is substantial. Many are now expressing profound hesitancy about participating in everyday campus life. Attending classes, participating in extracurricular activities, and even simple tasks like walking across campus alone have become sources of anxiety and fear. This sense of isolation and marginalization is creating a chilling effect, hindering students' ability to fully engage in their education and experience the benefits of a vibrant campus community.

Root Causes and Contributing Factors

Experts point to a confluence of factors fueling this alarming rise in antisemitism. The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict remains a primary catalyst, amplifying existing tensions and providing a backdrop for the expression of extremist views. The rapid dissemination of inflammatory content through social media platforms plays a significant role, creating echo chambers that reinforce hateful ideologies and normalize antisemitic rhetoric. A broader societal trend of increasing polarization also contributes, as differing perspectives on the conflict become entangled with long-standing prejudices and stereotypes.

The Free Speech Dilemma

Universities find themselves in a precarious position, struggling to navigate the delicate balance between upholding principles of free speech and ensuring the safety and well-being of their students. While institutions are obligated to protect freedom of expression, that right is not absolute. The question of where to draw the line - when speech crosses into the realm of harassment or incitement to violence - has become a source of intense debate and legal scrutiny.

Several universities have attempted to address the issue by implementing new policies designed to specifically counter antisemitism. However, these policies frequently face legal challenges, with critics arguing that they infringe upon First Amendment rights. Finding a solution that satisfies both the constitutional guarantees of free speech and the fundamental right of students to feel safe on campus remains a formidable challenge.

Institutional Responses and Future Concerns

The pressure on universities is mounting. Student groups, Jewish organizations, and concerned parents are demanding stronger action. While some institutions have issued statements condemning antisemitism and taken steps to provide support services for affected students, many feel that these efforts are insufficient. The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights is reportedly investigating several universities over allegations of failing to adequately protect Jewish students.

Looking ahead, the situation requires a multifaceted approach. This includes not only strengthening campus policies and security measures but also fostering a culture of inclusivity and understanding through education and dialogue. Addressing the root causes of antisemitism - combating prejudice, challenging misinformation, and promoting critical thinking - is crucial to creating a campus environment where all students feel safe, respected, and valued. Failure to do so risks further alienating Jewish students and undermining the principles of diversity and inclusion that institutions strive to uphold.