State Leaders Convene in Columbia to Tackle Rising Antisemitism in Higher Education

COLUMBIA — State Leaders Gather to Address Antisemitism in Higher Education

On a warm September day, with the temperature hovering around 83°F under cloudy skies, education and political leaders from across South Carolina came together in Columbia for a much-needed discussion on an important and pressing issue: antisemitism on college campuses. This gathering took place on September 9, 2024, and aimed to shed light on the growing incidence of antisemitic behavior in academic settings.

The event was organized by the Combat Antisemitism Movement and hosted at the University of South Carolina’s Pastides Alumni Center. It brought together a diverse group of attendees, including university administrators, lawmakers, and representatives from the Israeli government. This daylong forum offered workshops that covered various topics, from students’ and parents’ experiences on campus to the financial sources contributing to antisemitic sentiments in the United States. While most discussions were closed to the press, the event’s opening remarks set the tone for what was to be a significant dialogue.

Protest Trends and Rising Concerns

In recent years, the situation surrounding antisemitism has escalated. Following the tragic events on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, universities across the country have seen protests that echo deep political divisions. Although South Carolina has largely remained calm compared to other states, local universities faced their own events. Earlier this year, a group of students at USC was arrested for chanting pro-Palestinian slogans, though they were released without charges.

Worryingly, a report from the Antidefamation League indicated a staggering 193 percent increase in antisemitic incidents in South Carolina from 2021 to 2022. This uptick has sparked a sense of urgency, as the appearance of antisemitic propaganda in neighborhoods across the state has also noticeably risen in recent months.

Voices from the Forum

The event drew the attention of notable officials, including Governor Henry McMaster, who opened the forum, and Ellen Weaver, the state’s Superintendent of Education. Among other speakers was Anat Sultan-Dadon, the consul general of Israel to the Southeastern United States, who stressed the normalization of antisemitic rhetoric in our civic life. Her poignant remarks highlighted the stark reality, stating, “As we mourn the six hostages brutally executed in Israel, their executioners’ flag is being waved in demonstrations in places like New York.”

Understanding the roots and manifestations of antisemitism is complicated but crucial. Brandon Fish, the Charleston Jewish Federation community outreach director, underscored the need for nuanced discussions. “Today really provided some much-needed clarity to university leadership about where those lines are,” he explained. He elaborated on the delicate balance between legitimate criticism of Israel and outright antisemitism, a distinction crucial for university policies moving forward.

A Complex Campus Climate

However, not all aspects of the campus climate are straightforward. USC is currently embroiled in a controversial plan to host a “roast” featuring Gavin McInnes, a right-wing figure associated with the Proud Boys, a far-right group. This has raised eyebrows, especially given McInnes’s history of defending Holocaust deniers and engaging with antisemitic rhetoric. USC President Michael Amiridis has stood firm on the issue, defending the university’s decision on First Amendment grounds.

When pressed about this precarious balance between fighting antisemitism and allowing such figures a platform, Governor McMaster shared his concerns. “The question is, ‘Who is being invited, and why?’” he pondered. He expressed that while there’s room for diverse opinions, he himself had seen events that seemed rather pointless or “goofy,” suggesting a need for more thoughtful invitations.

A Call to Action

The forum in Columbia has brought together many voices to tackle the challenge of antisemitism in higher education. As the conversations continue, the hope is that institutions can develop clear policies that not only protect students but also promote a healthy academic environment. It’s a reminder that dialogue, understanding, and action are essential in today’s complex world.

As we move forward, it’s crucial for leaders, educators, and students to keep the lines of communication open, and to remember the shared responsibility of combating hate in all its forms.