Charged atmosphere at hearing on anti-Semitism at American universities Authorities warn: French are poisoning themselves in the fight against bedbugs

The presidents of three elite US universities defended themselves at a US Congressional hearing against accusations that they had not done enough to combat anti-Semitism on campus. The Republican-led Education Committee on Tuesday convened the presidents of Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

All three acknowledged anti-Semitic and Islamophobic incidents at their universities since the Islamist Hamas attack on Israel on October 7.

Republican Elise Stefanik in particular provided sensational moments during the hearing. For example, she asked whether the “call for genocide against the Jews” at universities violated guidelines on bullying and harassment. “That may be the case, depending on the context,” Harvard President Claudine Gay responded. When asked to answer “yes” or “no,” Gay again said it depends on the context. The other presidents made similar statements, emphasizing that it depends on whether it is directed against an individual.

Committed to freedom of expression

Gay also said elsewhere during the hearing: “I personally find these types of hateful, inconsiderate and offensive statements abhorrent.” But one is obliged to freedom of expression. This also applies to views “that are offensive, insulting and hateful”. It is crucial when such statements result in ‘behavior’ that is contrary to the guidelines. It has been made clear that any behavior that disrupts educational and research efforts will not be tolerated. Stefanik, a Harvard graduate, had already called for Gay’s resignation before the hearing.

Recently, the dispute over the conflict in the Middle East also broke out in universities and schools. American media reported incidents of physical violence or the threat thereof. Anti-Semitic and racist graffiti appeared on the school grounds. Videos circulating online showed young people tearing down posters with photos of the Hamas hostages. The US Department of Education had launched an investigation into anti-Semitic and Islamophobic incidents at American educational institutions, including Harvard, and the elite universities Columbia and Cornell. (sda/dpa)