When there are no consequences for public disruptions, vandalism, harassments, and assaults... (fb)

Students Supporting Israel Condemns Rising Antisemitism Following Tragic Attack in Washington, D.C It was just a matter of time… The brutal murder of two Israeli Embassy staff members, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, outside the Capital Jewish Museum last night was not just an attack on two innocent lives, it was an act of terror on the Jewish community and Israel. Last night, SSI alumni from Augsburg College (class of 2016) and Drexel University (class of 2023) were present at the event. We are thankful that both are safe. Hannah Geller, SSI Alumna from Penn State (class of 2018) who also currently works for the AJC, reflected on the tragic events in the Times of Israel Blog she published: “As a proud American, Jew, and Zionist who dedicates her life to advocating for the Jewish people, I am here to tell you that ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. We need a call to action. “ We extend our deepest condolences to the families of Yaron and Sarah, a young couple whose future was stolen by an act of hatred. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, and with the Jewish community that continues to endure the consequences of rampant antisemitism. This act was not random. It was not isolated. This was the direct result of a growing climate of antisemitic incitement in the West, particularly in the United States. When extremists chant “Globalize the Intifada” and “From the River to the Sea,” they are not speaking in metaphors. They are calling for violence against Jews. Last night, after we have continued to say what these alarming chants mean, that violence became reality. When someone shows you who they are, believe them. The suspect in this attack reportedly shouted “Free, free Palestine” while in custody. This is not activism. This is terrorism. And it is time for every American, Jewish and non-Jewish alike, to stand against this hatred before more lives are lost. Students Supporting Israel refuses to stay silent. We demand action. We demand accountability. Although we have taken preliminary steps to combat antisemitism and hatred, much more needs to be accomplished. We demand that our leaders recognize the severity of this moment and take decisive steps to confront the rising tide of antisemitism and anti-Zionism that has infiltrated our campuses, our communities, and our country. Universities have failed to effectively address the growing spread of anti-Zionism and antisemitism on campus. When some university leaders are asked whether calling for the genocide of Jews violates campus policies on bullying and harassment, they respond with, “It depends on the context.” This answer is part of the problem. When professors use their classrooms to brainwash thousands of students on our campuses, are we surprised that words turn into weapons? When those who assault Jewish students on our campuses face no consequences, and students who occupy buildings and block access for Jewish students are neither arrested nor suspended, it's clear we have a serious problem. SSI calls on elected officials and community leaders to take immediate action to address this issue that we have been vocal about since October 7th and before it. We will not be intimidated. We will not be silenced. We will continue to stand proudly as Jews, as Zionists, and as advocates for truth. May the memories of Yaron and Sarah be a blessing. Let this moment serve as a wake-up call for all who have ignored the warning signs for too long. (fb)