South Michigan News

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Tim Walberg of Michigan, along with 43 of his colleagues, has taken a stand to demand the U.S. Department of Education to ensure the safety of Jewish students on college campuses. In a letter addressed to U.S. Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, the lawmakers highlight the urgent need for colleges and universities to promptly address harassment that creates a hostile environment for Jewish students.

The call for action comes in the wake of the largest attack on Jewish civilians since the Holocaust. Following this horrific event, numerous collegiate organizations have issued statements defending or even celebrating the attack. Some of these groups have even called for a "National Day of Resistance" on October 12th, further exacerbating the concerns for the safety of Jewish students.

The letter emphasizes the legal obligations of schools under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to provide a discrimination-free environment for all students, including Jewish students. Congressman Walberg and his colleagues stress the need for colleges and universities to address the rampant antisemitic beliefs that have been observed on campuses across the country.

"In light of developing events, we encourage the Department to engage immediately with colleges and universities on their obligations to take prompt and appropriate action to respond to harassment that creates a hostile environment for Jewish students," the letter states. It further urges the Department to prioritize universities with instances of student support for terrorism in their efforts to combat antisemitism on campuses.

The lawmakers also request the Department to provide information on any actions taken as part of the Antisemitism Awareness Campaign, which includes campus visits. The U.S. Department of Education had launched this campaign in May, with the promise to visit college campuses to gain a better understanding of the prevalence of antisemitism.

Congressman Tim Walberg serves on the House Education & Workforce Committee, highlighting his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students on college campuses.

The full letter can be accessed here.

In a time where the safety and well-being of Jewish students are being threatened, Congressman Walberg and his colleagues are taking a firm stand against antisemitism, demanding immediate action from the U.S. Department of Education. Their letter serves as a reminder of the legal obligations that schools have to foster an inclusive and discrimination-free environment for all students, regardless of their race, color, or national origin.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of the recent attack on Jewish civilians, it is crucial for colleges and universities to confront and address the hostile environment that Jewish students may be facing on campuses. By engaging with educational institutions and prioritizing those with instances of student support for terrorism, the Department of Education can play a significant role in combating antisemitism and protecting the well-being of Jewish students.

This call to action from Congressman Walberg and his colleagues brings attention to the urgent need for colleges and universities to take proactive measures in responding to harassment and creating a safe and inclusive environment for Jewish students. It is a reminder that discrimination and hatred have no place in our institutions of higher education.

The letter serves as a powerful statement, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address the rampant antisemitism on college campuses. It is a call to hold colleges and universities accountable for their obligations under the law and to ensure that Jewish students can pursue their education without fear or discrimination.

As the U.S. Department of Education considers the demands put forward by Congressman Walberg and his colleagues, it is hoped that they will take swift and decisive action to protect the rights and safety of Jewish students. The fight against antisemitism on college campuses must be met with a unified and unwavering commitment to creating a truly inclusive educational environment for all students.

Click this link to access more information: https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-leads-colleagues-demanding-safety-jewish-students-college-campuses