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Incident at Stanford University Part of Troubling Pattern

B’nai B’rith International has issued the following statement:

B’nai B’rith International is deeply concerned over the latest incident of anti-Semitism on a college campus. Earlier this week, the Associated Students of Stanford University (ASSU) held a senate meeting discussing a bill that would “reaffirm the fight against anti-Semitism.” At the meeting, a Stanford student, running for re-election to the senate, said that it’s not anti-Semitic to question if Jews control the media, banks and government. Other members of ASSU have asked that he not be allowed to run for office again.

To find such ignorance and bigotry on a college campus, displayed by a supposed campus leader, is extremely distressing. And this sort of anti-Semitism too often begets even more wide-spread delegitimization of Jews and Israel.

​The rise of anti-Semitism and anti-Israel activities on college campuses is disconcerting. Every year, dozens of colleges and universities throughout the world participate in Israel apartheid week, where students hold rallies protesting the State of Israel. In March, swastikas were found on the campuses of Purdue University and the University of Indianapolis.

​These acts of anti-Semitism must be taken seriously, and university leadership should not disregard such behavior. It is imperative for the well-being of Jewish students across the world that they feel safe and secure when pursuing higher education. Critical thinking skills and respect for others are the hallmarks of a strong college education. Someone trading in such stereotypes should have no place in a position of leadership at Stanford.