The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is investigating four top medical schools for alleged antisemitic incidents during their 2024 commencement ceremonies.
The investigation targets Harvard, Columbia, Brown, and Johns Hopkins, based on allegations from a study published in an Israel-based medical journal. The study scrutinized videos of commencement ceremonies, focusing on students wearing keffiyeh scarves and protest slogans.
Harvard confirmed receiving a notification about the investigation, while Columbia stated its strong condemnation of antisemitism and all forms of discrimination.
These investigations reflect the Trump administration's focus on cracking down on alleged antisemitism on college campuses. The administration has signed executive orders calling for civil rights investigations of antisemitism and canceling student visas of pro-Palestinian protesters.
The study at the center of the Harvard investigation identifies common protest language and criticism of Israel as examples of antisemitism. This aligns with the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism, which has been criticized by speech advocates as over-broad and partisan.
U.S. free speech law grants considerable protection to protest, including views and symbols deemed offensive. However, these protections are more ambiguous on private college campuses receiving government funds.
6 Comments
Marishka
This is political persecution, not an investigation. The government shouldn't dictate campus speech.
Pupsik
This is nothing more than an attempt to stifle dissent and silence criticism of Israel's human rights violations.
Marishka
It's time for universities to crack down on the culture of intolerance and hate that allows antisemitism to flourish.
Pupsik
Universities have a responsibility to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students, including Jewish students.
Marishka
This investigation is essential to protect the rights of Jewish students and combat the growing problem of antisemitism on campuses.
Eugene Alta
Using student visas as leverage against protestors is beyond outrageous. This administration is out of control.