Join the Fight Against Antisemitism: Education Committee Explores New Proposal

The Education Committee met on Monday to discuss a proposal from Sen. Brian Hardin aimed at addressing antisemitism in schools and colleges.

This proposal asks educational institutions to implement policies and training focused on antisemitism. It follows the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition, which describes antisemitism as a negative perception of Jewish people. This can manifest in different ways, including hostility toward Jewish individuals or their communities.

While the Alliance states that criticizing Israel, as long as it’s equal to criticism of other countries, isn’t antisemitic, it does find certain comparisons offensive. For example, it condemns likening Israeli policies to those of the Nazis.

Sen. Hardin noted a troubling increase in antisemitic behavior, especially following recent violent events.

“In recent years, particularly after the attacks on October 7, antisemitism has surged across the country, including in schools and on college campuses,” Hardin explained.

The violent assaults carried out by Hamas on that day resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths. In response, Israeli actions have reportedly led to significant Palestinian casualties.

Adam Beren from Wichita, who leads the Combat Antisemitism Movement, supports Hardin’s initiative. He mentioned that many schools across the nation have witnessed a rise in antisemitic acts.

“Nebraska hasn’t seen as much activity as other places, but there have been incidents at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln,” Beren said. He referenced a peaceful protest organized by the Students For Justice in Palestine last May, which called for changes regarding the university’s connections to Israel.

Students from other universities also shared their experiences of antisemitism during the committee hearing. Sandra Rips, a Jewish attorney from Lincoln, reflected on her own experiences growing up in Nebraska. She shared, “Growing up Jewish in this state meant always being in the minority, which leads to various challenges and heartaches.”

Interestingly, nobody opposed the bill. However, Maimoon Qureshi, a Muslim-American student, expressed concerns about the proposal’s limited focus. “I’ve faced discrimination and many awful slurs. We often pick and choose which issues to address,” Qureshi said.

Currently, the committee has not taken any action on this proposal.