University Protests
May 31, 2024I'm finding it hard to believe that the recent eruption of student protests against the war in Gaza is anti-semitic. Claiming the protests are anti-semitic undermines legitimate acts of anti-semitism. Also, as reported by Reuters (at least in the case of the Columbia University protests) these claims are patently false:
Many Jewish students are among the organizers, though, and bristle at allegations of antisemitism. Over many hours spent at the encampment this week, Reuters journalists have seen students peacefully chatting, reading, eating, and holding both Jewish and Muslim prayer ceremonies. There have been jazz performances, lectures, first aid courses, bouts of pro-Palestinian revolutionary chants, and writing workshops. Sometimes heated but non-violent debates break out between anti-Zionist Jews and pro-Israel students visiting the camp.
Of course, maybe I don't understand anti-semitism. Perhaps the fact that dozens of student groups have come together to organize the protest at Columbia, including Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace means I can't see the covert bigotry. Maybe that is it, or maybe some people just don't like freedom of speech.