Two faith-based groups have teamed up with a Virginia university to tackle what they see as rising antisemitism at the University of Michigan. JewBelong, known for its billboard campaigns against antisemitism, and Christian Broadcasting Network have put up four billboards near the Ann Arbor campus.
The billboards display strong messages like “Jewish students don’t need your pity. Just your spine.” They will be up through early November, timed for the influx of students returning for the fall semester. Aiming to reach over 18 million people, these advertisements express the urgency of addressing antisemitism on campus.
Archie Gottesman, co-founder of JewBelong, shared that it’s a “terrifying time to be a Jewish college student.” He emphasized that many Jewish students feel unsafe, facing unprecedented levels of antisemitism. This partnership between Christian and Jewish communities aims to showcase that fighting discrimination is a shared responsibility.
The university is currently under federal investigation along with 59 other institutions for potential Title IV violations related to antisemitic discrimination on campuses. This follows threats from former President Trump regarding funding cuts for schools that do not act to protect Jewish students.
In addition, recent student protests at the university have led to vandalism incidents associated with calls for divestment from Israel, with some protesters targeting university officials. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has intensified these discussions, highlighting the need for safe spaces for all students regardless of their backgrounds.
Studies show that antisemitism has surged in recent years, becoming a pressing issue on many campuses. According to a report by the Anti-Defamation League, incidents of antisemitic acts hit a record high in 2022, suggesting that schools and communities must strengthen their commitment to inclusivity and safety.
This situation at the University of Michigan reflects a broader trend on college campuses across the country, where tensions related to global events can spill over into local student interactions. It’s crucial for institutions to foster dialogue and understanding to combat hate effectively.
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