AMHERST, MASSACHUSETTS – The University of Massachusetts Amherst finds itself in the crosshairs of a federal investigation into alleged antisemitism on campus. The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights has initiated this investigation following a reported incident of “violent antisemitism assault” in the aftermath of a Hamas terror attack on October 7. Similar probes have been launched against other universities such as Yale University, American University, and Scripps College.
The complaints against UMass Amherst were filed by The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, the Anti-Defamation League, the National Jewish Advocacy Center, and Jewish on Campus. These organizations allege that the university failed to appropriately address instances of harassment targeting students of Jewish ancestry during the 2023-2024 school year. The Department of Education has confirmed that an investigation will be conducted to determine if the university’s response to these incidents aligns with the requirements of Title VI.
One particular complaint details a senior student at UMass Amherst being physically assaulted at a solidarity event after the Hamas attack. The student was reportedly punched, kicked, and verbally abused, with an Israeli flag being ripped from his hands, stabbed, and discarded. Despite condemning the attack, critics argue that the university’s actions were insufficient in ensuring the safety of Jewish students on campus.
In response to the allegations, UMass Amherst expressed its commitment to combating discrimination based on national origin, including antisemitism. The university emphasized its condemnation of hatred in all forms and pledged full cooperation with the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights throughout the investigation process. Additionally, the university highlighted the importance of addressing any complaints of discrimination promptly and thoroughly.
The Anti-Defamation League and the Brandeis Center have commended the Department of Education for opening investigations into the filed complaints at multiple universities. They hope that these inquiries will lead to meaningful changes that protect Jewish students across various campuses. The urgency to address antisemitic incidents on college grounds is underscored by concerns raised about the safety and well-being of individuals within these communities.
Overall, the developments at UMass Amherst serve as a reminder of the persistent challenges faced by Jewish students on college campuses nationwide. The outcomes of these investigations will not only shape the future of anti-discrimination efforts in higher education but also set a precedent for fostering inclusive and respectful environments for all individuals.