Cornell University Faces Antisemitic Threats, Prompts Police Response and Governor’s Intervention
Antisemitic threats were recently discovered on a Cornell University fraternity and sorority forum, leading to a swift response from law enforcement and the governor of New York. The disturbing posts included threats to kill Jews on campus, with one specifically targeting Cornell’s Center for Jewish Living and kosher dining hall.
According to the university’s Hillel chapter, at least one of the posts referred to a shooting of “pig Jews” at the aforementioned center. These threats are part of a larger wave of incidents occurring on college campuses nationwide since the Israel-Hamas conflict began. The conflict, which followed terrorist attacks resulting in numerous casualties and kidnappings, has fueled tensions and contributed to a rise in antisemitism.
In a statement, Cornell President Martha E. Pollack condemned the antisemitic messages and informed the public that the FBI had been alerted to a potential hate crime. Additionally, the Cornell University Police Department has taken measures to ensure the safety of community members by maintaining a presence at the Center for Jewish Living.
President Pollack emphasized that threats of violence are completely unacceptable, and the university is committed to holding those responsible accountable under the law. The immediate priority is ensuring the safety of the community, and this will remain a top concern.
The threats were posted on Cornell’s Greekrank forums over the weekend, with some posts being removed after they were reported. The Cornell Sun, the university’s newspaper, revealed the disturbing content of the threats, which included rape threats against female Jewish students and calls for violence against Jewish individuals.
Cornell Hillel, a center for Jewish life on campus, issued a statement condemning the threats and urging caution among students and staff. They advised individuals to avoid the Center for Jewish Living building as a precautionary measure.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her support for the Jewish students at Cornell, commending their strength and unity in response to the vile threats. She made it clear that hate and violence will not be tolerated, directing the New York State Police to increase security measures on college campuses and throughout the state.
The Cornell Daily Sun also reported instances of anti-Israel graffiti on campus, as well as a controversial speech by a Cornell professor at a pro-Palestinian rally. The professor’s comments, initially expressing excitement and energy about the Hamas attack on Israel, received backlash, leading to an apology and a request for a leave of absence.
The university community and authorities are actively addressing the issue of antisemitism at Cornell, working together to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, faculty, and staff.
Note: This article was originally published on USA TODAY under the title “Cornell University the latest college campus dealing with antisemitism.”
