Jewish Students at Cornell University Fear for Their Safety Amid Anti-Semitic Threats
Jewish students at Cornell University in New York are living in fear following a wave of anti-Semitic threats made against them online. As tensions rise in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict, some students have even been forced to leave campus due to concerns for their safety.
The threatening messages, which emerged on the internet over the weekend, have left many students too afraid to sleep in their own rooms. Molly Goldstein, President of the college’s Center for Jewish Living, expressed the genuine fear that has gripped the student body. She shared that they have received calls from students who are not on campus, asking if it is safe for them to return to their rooms. In response to the threats, some students have sought refuge elsewhere in Ithaca.
A senior Jewish student at Cornell disclosed that the atmosphere on campus is one of anxious unease, with many feeling scared and stressed. The targeting of Jewish students during this period of heightened tension is particularly distressing and unfair.
In a statement, Cornell University President Martha Pollack condemned the threats and outlined the actions being taken to ensure the safety of the Jewish community on campus. It was revealed that the Cornell University Police are currently investigating the matter, with officers stationed at the Center for Jewish Living. The FBI has also been notified, as the threats are being treated as a potential hate crime.
The offensive messages were found on a website unrelated to Cornell, specifically mentioning 104 West, which is home to the Center for Jewish Living. They called for violence against Jewish students and made a shooting threat. The posts were later removed from the site.
The unrest at Cornell University has been further fueled by regular demonstrations in support of Palestine since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict. A history professor from the university recently attracted attention for his remarks at an off-campus rally, where he described the Hamas attacks on Israel as exhilarating and energizing.
As the university community grapples with these alarming threats, it is vital to address the issue of anti-Semitism and ensure the safety and well-being of all students. Cornell University’s commitment to taking immediate action and prohibiting anti-Semitism is commendable. It is hoped that these measures will help restore a sense of security and harmony on campus.
