Parents and groups of the Jewish community prepare for the upcoming school year amidst a surge of antisemitism on campuses: 'Everyone is affected'

There are concerns that Jewish students may face antisemitism during the upcoming school year, following a wave of protests on college campuses across the United States in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks.

Beverly Hills plastic surgeon and Jewish activist Dr. Sheila Nazarian believes universities should prioritize the safety of all students, regardless of their background. This includes taking a strong stance against antisemitism and fostering a culture that values the Jewish community.

As her child is about to attend college, she expressed deep concern for the safety and well-being of Jewish students on campus.

University administrators have a "moral obligation" to enforce their policies and confront "radical, far-left groups" on campus this academic year, according to Nazarian.

She emphasized the need for universities to take comprehensive measures to safeguard Jewish students and create an environment that allows them to flourish academically and personally without facing hate on campus.

In the fall semester, major Jewish organizations, including the ADL, AJC, CoP, Hillel International, and Jewish Federations for North America, have issued a comprehensive set of recommendations to combat antisemitism on campus.

Schools should communicate campus rules, standards, and policies, support Jewish students, ensure campus safety, reaffirm faculty responsibilities, and prepare to mitigate disruptions on the 1-year mark of the October 7 Hamas attack against Israel.

"Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director, stated that the surge in antisemitism on college campuses last year was unacceptable, yet many administrations failed to respond effectively. He emphasized that college and university leaders must take significant steps to ensure the safety of Jewish students."

Over the past year, Gaza war protests have been a significant aspect of college life, with some protesters resorting to illegal encampments, violence, vandalism, and disregard for local laws despite the majority maintaining peaceful protests.

The Israeli government and the killing of Palestinian civilians were the main concerns of protesters, not Jews specifically.

Since October 7, there has been a 700% increase in reported antisemitic incidents on college campuses compared to the previous year, totaling 1,851 incidents.

In fall 2023, a survey by Hillel and ADL revealed that 73% of Jewish college students and 44% of non-Jewish students experienced or witnessed antisemitism on their campuses.

Liora Rez, the executive director of StopAntisemitism, stated that harassment, bullying, and physical assaults are unacceptable and should not be tolerated against anyone.

According to her, when there is true leadership, antisemitic and anti-Zionist persecution does not occur. However, when the "adults in the room" give in to the mob, everyone suffers, not just Jewish students.

Parents should teach their children to embrace their heritage and not give in to bullies, as doing so only invites more abuse.

The Jewish people and the modern state of Israel have made significant contributions to the world, despite being a small group, and it's a miracle.

Ariella Noveck, co-founder of Shield Communications PR, stated that Jewish students frequently feel uncertain about responding to antisemitism and worry about potential disciplinary action at school for expressing their views.

"It's a confusing time for them as they don't know when to speak up, whether it will impact their grades, if they have a story to share with the media, whether they should go to the media, and who they are - just a 19-year-old kid," she said to Planet Chronicle Digital.

Noveck advised students to use their voices in a manner that is not disruptive or harmful to them at present. They could consider reaching out to a political figure who could advocate for policies that safeguard their individual rights.

Many organizations, including her own and campus resources, can help students discover their voice, she observed. If a student feels threatened, Noveck advised them to first contact 911 and their local campus police for safety.

Noveck urged parents to have an open and honest conversation with their child about the importance of accepting oneself and not being targeted for it.

"Of course, there isn't a perfect solution to every case, but staying silent is definitely not one of them," she stated.