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In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the academic community, two Jewish students at DePaul University in Chicago were violently attacked last November. The alleged assailant, Adam Erkan, 20, has been charged with multiple felonies, including hate crimes and aggravated battery.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the safety of Jewish students on college campuses and the alarming rise of antisemitism in recent years.
Details of the attack
According to reports, the attack occurred while Max Long and Michael Kaminsky were peacefully advocating for Israel on campus.
Erkan, who was not affiliated with the university, allegedly approached Long while wearing a face-covering and shouting antisemitic slurs. A second suspect joined in, attacking Long from behind and subsequently turning on Kaminsky when he attempted to intervene. The brutality of the assault left Long with a brain injury and Kaminsky with a fractured wrist that required surgery.
The aftermath and community response
The incident has raised significant concerns among students and faculty alike. Long expressed a sense of relief following Erkan’s arrest, stating that he often feels safer in conflict zones than on his own campus.
DePaul University officials condemned the attack, emphasizing that acts of hate and violence have no place in their community. They expressed gratitude for the police’s efforts in apprehending the suspect and reiterated their commitment to combating antisemitism.
Legal implications and ongoing investigations
Erkan was arrested outside his home and is currently being held without bail as he awaits trial. The Cook County Prosecutor’s Office is treating this case with the seriousness it deserves, and there are expectations for a vigorous prosecution.
Meanwhile, Long and Kaminsky have filed a lawsuit against DePaul University, alleging that the institution allowed antisemitic rhetoric to permeate its environment. This legal action highlights the urgent need for universities to address hate speech and ensure the safety of all students.
A call to action against antisemitism
The attack on Long and Kaminsky is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling trend of rising antisemitism on college campuses across the United States. Advocacy groups are calling for more robust measures to protect students and foster an inclusive environment. As the community rallies around the victims, it is clear that more needs to be done to combat hate in all its forms. The message is clear: universities must take a stand against antisemitism and ensure that all students feel safe and supported.
