A Cornell University law professor is advocating for an independent commission to evaluate and address antisemitism at the Ivy League school. This comes after an associate professor made remarks expressing his exhilaration over the deadly attacks on Israeli civilians by Hamas terrorists. The clinical professor, William A. Jacobson, criticized the university for its aggressive focus on identity politics, claiming that it has led to a toxic campus culture.
Jacobson argues that the institution has become “balkanized” by its emphasis on racial, ethnic, religious, and gender identities through its “anti-racist” and “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” agenda. He believes that such programming exacerbates racial and social tensions rather than alleviating them. Jacobson further claims that school administrators have contributed to the failure to address the issue adequately.
In an effort to effect change, Jacobson is urging the Cornell Board of Trustees to consider a pause on all new administrative initiatives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion until permanent changes are made. He also proposes adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition of antisemitism and forming an independent commission to investigate antisemitism on campus and the negative effects of the university’s diversity initiatives.
This call for action comes amidst a broader controversy surrounding pro-Palestinian demonstrations and statements from student groups on college campuses across the country. Many universities have faced criticism for failing to distance themselves from these events and for allegedly blaming Israel for the recent conflict in the Gaza Strip.
Russell Rickford, an associate professor of history at Cornell, previously expressed his exhilaration over the attacks at a pro-Palestinian rally. However, he has since apologized for his remarks, acknowledging that they were reprehensible and did not reflect his values. In a joint statement, Cornell University President Martha E. Pollack and Cornell University Board of Trustees Chair Kraig H. Kayser condemned Rickford’s comments and affirmed the university’s stance against antisemitism and violence.
The controversy at Cornell and similar events on other campuses have led to criticism from alumni and employers, with some rescinding job offers to students involved in anti-Israel activities. The Cornell University administration has yet to comment on Jacobson’s proposals.
In conclusion, the issue of antisemitism at Cornell University has sparked calls for action, with a law professor urging the formation of an independent commission to address the problem. This controversy reflects a broader debate surrounding pro-Palestinian demonstrations on college campuses and their alleged impact on campus culture and perceptions of Israel.
