Cornell University is facing backlash and potential loss of federal funding over its response to antisemitism on campus. The Ivy League institution recently came under fire after a Cornell professor criticized the university president’s statement on the issue, calling it “window dressing.” The professor, William Jacobson, accused the administration of not taking sufficient action in the face of threats to Jewish students. This criticism comes in the wake of an antisemitic social media post by a Cornell student, which prompted an investigation by campus authorities.
In response to the incident, Cornell University President Martha E. Pollack condemned the antisemitic post and pledged to hold the responsible individual accountable. However, Rep. Jason Smith, chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, launched a probe into four top-ranked universities, including Cornell, over their handling of antisemitism on their campuses. Smith raised concerns about the universities’ failure to adequately protect Jewish students from discrimination and harassment. He also questioned their tax-exempt status and whether they were fulfilling their nonprofit educational mission.
Smith’s letter to the universities accused them of inconsistently protecting free speech and disciplining students and employees over other matters. He called for the institutions to provide their policies on free speech rights and detail the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in serving Jewish students. The universities have until Jan. 24 to respond to Smith’s inquiries.
The controversy surrounding Cornell’s response to antisemitism has reignited the debate over the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs on college campuses. Professor Jacobson, who has been critical of the university’s DEI culture, argued that it enables and encourages hatred against Israel and Jews. He called on the administration and the Board of Trustees to eliminate DEI and refocus on academics and individual rights.
The response from Cornell University and Rep. Jason Smith to the antisemitic incident highlights the ongoing concern about rising antisemitism on college campuses across the United States. The investigation initiated by Rep. Smith underscores the importance of protecting Jewish students from discrimination and harassment. As the issue continues to garner attention, it remains to be seen how these universities will address and combat antisemitism within their communities.
