As a Jewish college student in America today, I never imagined I’d be facing such a disturbing reality. Since October 7th, 2023, we’ve witnessed an unprecedented surge in antisemitism on campuses across the nation. Let me take you through the unsettling experiences that have become our new normal.
Classroom Hostility: When Education Turns to Intimidation
In what should be safe spaces for learning, Jewish students are increasingly confronted with hostility. In one shocking incident, a photography class showcased images of burning redheaded baby dolls – a clear allusion to Jewish children. The professor’s response? Praising it as “the most majestic photo” in 25 years of teaching. This is the state of higher education in 2025.
The situation has escalated to the point where professors are actively participating in antisemitic behavior. Some have been seen recording Jewish students at protests and labeling anyone supporting Israel’s right to exist as a “genocide enabler.” It’s a chilling perversion of academic freedom.
Student Organizations: Breeding Grounds for Hate
Campus organizations, once platforms for community building, have become hotbeds of antisemitism. At one school, the Muslim Student Association reportedly called Jewish students “pigs” and threatened to hunt them down. This isn’t just offensive – it’s dangerous.
Other disturbing incidents include spray-painting “October 7th is forever” around campus, celebrating a terrorist attack under the guise of activism. These actions create an atmosphere of fear and isolation for Jewish students.
The Invisible Jew: Hiding in Plain Sight
The hostile environment has led to a troubling trend: 41% of Jewish students are now concealing their identity. They’re removing kippas, hiding Star of David necklaces, and hoping their last names don’t give them away. It’s a stark reminder of darker times in history, now playing out on American college campuses.
Some students have resorted to taking “additional security precautions” just to navigate daily campus life. The fact that attending a lecture feels like entering a war zone speaks volumes about the current climate.
Administrative Inaction: A Betrayal of Trust
University administrations have largely failed to address this crisis effectively. Two-thirds of Jewish students have little faith in their school’s ability to handle antisemitism. When students do speak up, they’re often dismissed or, worse, told they should know better than to cry “genocide” given Jewish history. This gaslighting only compounds the trauma.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Despite these challenges, Jewish students are showing remarkable resilience. They’re speaking out, supporting each other, and refusing to be silenced. Some are even finding the courage to proudly display their Jewish identity, turning adversity into strength.
Every time we stand up to hatred, educate our peers, or refuse to be intimidated, we’re making progress. It’s not the college experience we expected, but it’s forging a generation of Jews who are more determined than ever to fight for their right to exist – both on campus and beyond.
To the Class of 2025 and beyond: May your degrees come with an extra dose of courage and hope for a better tomorrow. Because if we can survive this, we can survive anything. Here’s to perseverance in the face of prejudice.
