In an effort to combat the rising tide of antisemitism on college campuses, Jewish American singer and rapper Matisyahu will be holding a virtual concert at Columbia University. The event, sponsored by the Israel on Campus Coalition (ICC), aims to galvanize Jewish students and raise awareness about the age-old issue of antisemitism.
Antisemitism, according to Noa Tishby, former special envoy for combatting antisemitism, is the oldest form of hate and discrimination that still exists today. She emphasizes that the recent surge in antisemitic incidents is not an indication of its rise, but rather its visibility. Tishby highlights the importance of addressing this issue head-on and empowering Jewish students to stand up against antisemitism.
Matisyahu, known for his reggae, rap, and beatbox-influenced songs, expressed his desire to support the Jewish community in the face of tragedy and antisemitism. He believes that music and live shows can bring people together, especially during challenging times. The musician’s message resonates with Jewish students who have been grappling with a sense of isolation and loneliness amid the ongoing war and pro-Palestine protests that call for the elimination of Israel.
The ICC’s CEO, Jacob Baime, acknowledges the unprecedented wave of hate on college campuses and emphasizes the organization’s commitment to supporting Jewish students and their friends. The concert serves as a means to uplift spirits and foster a sense of unity among Jewish students.
Protests in support of Palestine have been taking place on campuses and cities across the nation. These demonstrations have included acts of vandalism, such as graffiti with messages like “Death to Israel” and “Glory to our Martyrs,” as well as the tearing down of posters depicting Jews kidnapped by Hamas. Tragically, an elderly Jewish man in California lost his life after an altercation with a pro-Palestine protester.
In response to these events, Columbia University recently suspended two student groups, Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace, for repeatedly violating university rules. The suspension came after the groups organized a walkout demanding that the university label Israel’s actions against Gaza as “genocide.”
Noa Tishby, in her message to students, reminds them that antisemitism is an age-old form of hate but reinforces the resilience and unity of the Jewish people. She emphasizes that, in the face of adversity, Jews have always prevailed and that this strength will continue to unite them.
The concert, featuring Matisyahu and a special message from Noa Tishby, will be livestreamed on the ICC’s YouTube page at 8 p.m. It serves as a powerful platform to raise awareness about antisemitism and empower Jewish students to stand up against hate.
