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In a recent City Council hearing, students from the City University of New York (CUNY) shared their distressing experiences with antisemitism, prompting intense scrutiny of the university’s leadership. CUNY Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez found himself under fire from lawmakers who criticized his lack of transparency regarding the university’s response to a troubling rise in antisemitic incidents on campus.
Lawmakers demand accountability
During the hearing, Councilmember Eric Dinowitz (D-Bronx), chair of the Committee on Higher Education, expressed frustration over the absence of concrete data on antisemitic complaints. “We want a CUNY that is safe and welcoming for all students,” he stated, emphasizing the need for comprehensive data to address the issue effectively.
The Chancellor’s inability to provide statistics on complaints or disciplinary actions against faculty members raised alarm among council members, with Councilmember Julie Menin (D-Manhattan) labeling the situation as “wholly unsatisfactory.”
Independent report highlights urgent need for change
A recent independent report, commissioned by Governor Kathy Hochul and conducted by former New York Chief Judge Jonathan Lippman, outlined 13 critical recommendations for CUNY.
These recommendations included revamping the complaints system, improving hiring practices, and enhancing training for diversity officers and professors. The report also urged collaboration with law enforcement to ensure student safety and called for a clear definition of antisemitism.
Students share their harrowing experiences
Students who testified at the hearing recounted their fears and frustrations, particularly in the wake of the recent Hamas attacks on Israel. One student described being labeled a “genocide enabler” for speaking out against antisemitism during campus protests. Another shared the distressing experience of being told to remove his Star of David necklace, highlighting the pervasive atmosphere of fear among Jewish students.
“I came to understand that my safety at school could not be guaranteed,” he lamented.
Chancellor’s response and future plans
In response to the mounting criticism, Chancellor Rodríguez outlined plans to overhaul the complaints system and expedite its implementation.
He highlighted measures already taken, such as hiring private security officers and launching student surveys to gauge campus climate. Additionally, he announced the formation of a “Freedom of Expression Working Group” aimed at clarifying the university’s policies on free speech. Rodríguez assured attendees that the university has the necessary regulations in place to investigate incidents and enforce consequences.
Ongoing challenges and community concerns
CUNY, which receives significant funding from both city and state sources, has faced a surge in antisemitic incidents since the outbreak of conflict in Gaza. Recent events have seen anti-Israel protesters confronting Jewish students, exacerbating tensions on campus. The situation has raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of Jewish students, prompting calls for immediate action from university administrators.
