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To the editor:
In “The End of the Academy?” (September 19, 2024), Mark A. Boyer rightfully calls attention to the dangers of performative, one-sided activism in academia—activism that prioritizes symbolism over substantive change. The same dynamic is playing out in the halls of Congress, where the conversation around antisemitism has devolved into political posturing and talking points instead of meaningful action. If we are to make real progress in combating antisemitism on college campuses and beyond, we must be wary of those who merely pay lip service to combating antisemitism without proposing or supporting concrete, effective measures.
In contrast to symbolic gestures, leaders like Senator Bob Casey and Congressman Dan Goldman understand that fighting hate requires sustained effort and resources. Their proposed Showing Up for Students Act, which aims to bolster the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, represents a genuine effort to combat discrimination on college campuses. Fully funding this vital agency is critical for effectively investigating and addressing incidents of bias. Yet, recent attempts by Republican lawmakers to slash its funding actively hinder efforts to create safer, more inclusive campuses for all students.
Beyond legislative actions, universities themselves have a critical role to play in combating hate. We must encourage institutions to increase their capacity to protect all students from bullying, harassment, and threats, while fostering a culture of respect and understanding.
Central to this effort is helping students navigate the intellectual challenges inherent in higher education. Boyer emphasizes the need for campuses to maintain dialogue and embrace a diversity of perspectives. Universities should equip students with the tools to engage critically and empathetically with diverse viewpoints. The Nexus Task Force's Campus Guide to Identifying Antisemitism in a Time of Perplexity provides a resource for differentiating between antisemitic threats and legitimate political expression.
Colleges and universities must take proactive steps that genuinely address antisemitism and promote a culture of respect on our college campuses. To do this, they need robust support from policymakers who understand that the safety and intellectual growth of students should not be sacrificed to partisan agendas. By addressing the root causes of intolerance and equipping our students with the tools for constructive dialogue, we can create campuses – and ultimately, a society – free from the scourge of antisemitism and all forms of bigotry. Let's call on our elected officials to move beyond rhetoric and embrace these practical, substantive measures. If we are serious about combating hate in all its forms, this is the path we must take.
--Kevin Rachlin
Washington Director, The Nexus Leadership Project
