Harvard. "We commend the clear-eyed and brutally honest assessment." This was ADL's response to a new report released by Harvard University's task force on antisemitism and anti-Israel bias, which found that Jewish and Israeli students dealt with fear, hostility and social shunning on campus. Concurrently, a parallel Harvard task force released a report on Muslim, Arab, and Palestinian affiliates that was also critical of the school. Harvard President Alan Garber wrote a response to the reports that apologized for the times when the school “failed to meet the high expectations we rightfully set for our community.” The reports both called for policy changes for Harvard’s programs, admissions and academic programs. ADL’s review of the antisemitism-focused report reiterated the need for clear and transparent enforcement of conduct rules and commended the school's commitment to action to address the report recommendations.

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AAUP Doubles Down on Anti-Zionist Rhetoric. A recent blog post by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) referred to the October 7 Hamas attacks as a “revolt” and dismissed rising antisemitism on campuses as a “big lie." The post, which minimizes violence against Israel and silences Jewish students’ concerns, follows AAUP’s co-sponsorship of the “National Day of Action” with fringe groups like Jewish Voice for Peace and the Institute for the Critical Study of Zionism — organizations known for anti-Zionist messaging.

👉 TAKE ACTION: Join ADL and AEN in urging AAUP to publicly address the harm caused, reaffirm their commitment to inclusion and ensure future advocacy represents all members — not just a narrow ideological fringe. Take action here.

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Dartmouth. As admitted students toured Dartmouth for its Class of 2029 welcome events, they were met with red paint dripping from the facade of Dartmouth Hall — an act of vandalism that the perpetrator called a protest against the college’s investments tied to Israel. The anonymous protester told The Dartmouth they hoped to spotlight the “Gaza genocide” and timed the demonstration to coincide with prospective students’ visits. Dartmouth condemned the vandalism, emphasizing that free expression does not extend to property destruction. Hillel at Dartmouth also issued a statement denouncing the act as divisive, urging that “we should all strive to build bridges by listening and finding common ground.”

(Source: Ramsey Alsheikh | The Dartmouth)

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Berklee College of Music. Berklee College of Music has terminated Nicholas Payton, chair of its brass department, following revelations of his antisemitic remarks and behavior. Payton had publicly referred to Jews as "vile predators" and falsely blamed them for the slave trade. Upon his dismissal, he claimed victimhood, asserting that Berklee was aware of his past statements when appointing him in 2024 and accused the institution of lacking due process. Payton also criticized the media's portrayal of his comments, suggesting they were mis-contextualized. In response, Berklee removed references to Payton from its official platforms, including the announcement of his appointment.

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Kansas. The Student Senate at the University of Kansas has overridden a veto of an anti-Israel resolution, despite Student Body President DaNae Estabine’s opposition. She had vetoed the resolution, reasoning that it picked a side in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and alienated students. The resolution asserted that Israel is committing genocide and had been cosponsored by KU Students for Justice in Palestine, KU Young Democratic Socialists of America and Jewish Students for People’s Liberation. In opposing the resolution, KU’s Chabad and Hillel jointly said that it demonizes Israel and "Jewish students for whom a deep connection to Israel is a core part of their identity."

Student Body President DaNae Estabine, who vetoed the anti-Israel resolution. (Source: Chad Cushing | The Kansan)

From Flagpole to Fame. In April 2024, UNC-Chapel Hill became a flashpoint in national debates over the Israel-Hamas conflict when pro-Palestinian protesters replaced the American flag with a Palestinian one at Polk Place, prompting counter-protests and the eventual re-raising of the U.S. flag by student Brendan Rosenblum. Rosenblum's actions, captured in widely circulated images, turned him into a symbol of patriotism, leading to invitations to speak at various events and appearances on national media. A year later, Rosenblum reflects on the personal impact of that moment, noting both the honor and the challenges that came with sudden national attention. He emphasizes the importance of standing up for one's beliefs while also acknowledging the complexities of the issues at hand. The events at UNC mirrored similar protests and tensions on college campuses across the country, highlighting the ongoing discourse surrounding free speech, activism and national identity.

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The Great Debate. A letter from four retired UCSB professors accused Jewish organizations, including ADL, of “weaponizing” antisemitism to stifle protest. In response, ADL Santa Barbara/Tri-Counties Regional Director Joshua Burt clarified that while criticism of Israel or advocacy for Palestinian justice is not antisemitism, excluding or targeting Jewish students because of their perceived ties to Israel is. Burt cited last year’s incidents involving Jewish student leader Tessa Veksler, desecrated mezuzahs, and rallies celebrating October 7 as clear examples of antisemitism, not political dissent. While UCSB has acknowledged shortcomings and is taking steps to improve, Burt urges all to lead with empathy for the students, staff and faculty affected by the anti-Jewish hate that exists at colleges across the country.

A Flag is Born. To honor Yom Ha’atzmaut, a recent reflection takes a deep dive on Israel’s national flag revealing the history and other designs considered before it was officially adopted in 1948. Inspired by the Jewish prayer shawl, the current blue and white with the Star of David was introduced at the 1897 First Zionist Congress and adopted by Israel's founders after a nationwide design contest. Other proposals ranged from Theodor Herzl’s star concept to other colors, menorahs and abstract imagery. Ultimately, the flag committee chose the Zionist symbol for its deep emotional resonance and global recognition. The first flag flown in Israel was hand-sewn from a bedsheet by American Zionist Rebecca Affachiner.

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A New Field of Care. Israel is breaking new ground in trauma medicine, developing what many are calling a new medical discipline: how to reintegrate hostages. Since the October 7 attacks, a team of Israeli medical, mental health and welfare professionals has been documenting best practices in helping freed hostages transition from captivity to recovery. From Beilinson to Sheba, hospitals have created spa-like recovery wings with personalized diets, therapy, and even haircuts and smartphones. The goal: restore personal independence and dignity after captivity. Doctors describe emotional highs followed by deep trauma, grief and slow healing. Yet resilience shines through — like Eli Sharabi, who lost his family and now speaks globally for those still held. “I’ve come back from hell,” he told the U.N. last month, “I’ve returned to tell my story.”

• Campus Community Advocacy Resources — From social media shares to letter writing campaigns, ADL has clear steps for you to take action and effect change on college campuses.
• K-12 Advocacy Resources — Tools and knowledge to foster and advocate for a safe, inclusive and equitable school environment for all.
• University Faculty and Staff — Support for impacted faculty and staff, guidance on how to discuss what constitutes antisemitism and anti-Zionism and how to provide help to students and colleagues.
• University Administration — Guidance & Best Practices for making campuses safer and more inclusive.
• Campus Antisemitism Report Card — See the grades of 135 universities, the current state of antisemitism on campus and how colleges and universities are responding.
• Chai-er Ed Podcast — ADL’s campus podcast, brings you firsthand stories from Jewish students navigating today’s college campuses.
• General Campus Resources — ADL Backgrounders, Educational Programming, Research and Analysis and more.
• Campus Antisemitism Legal Line (CALL) — College or university students, professors, or employees who want to report campus incidents of antisemitic discrimination, intimidation, harassment, vandalism or violence that may necessitate legal action can report to CALL for legal support.
• K-12 Antisemitism Legal Line — Parents and other interested adults in California, Massachusetts and New York can report incidents of antisemitic discrimination, intimidation, harassment, vandalism or violence occurring in K-12 schools to the K-12 Antisemitism Legal Line.
• Report an Antisemitic Incident.

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