WASHINGTON, D.C. – The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) has distributed a model resolution to student government leaders nationwide, urging them to condemn antisemitism on their campuses in observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27. Following the surge in violence and harassment against Jewish students post the October 7 Hamas attack, revealing widespread Jew-Hatred, AFPI aims to address the safety concerns and scholastic access of Jewish students.
The model resolution proposed by AFPI highlights the failure of numerous university administrations to address prevalent antisemitism within their campuses. If endorsed, this resolution would signify the student body’s opposition to hatred, racism, and violence while providing reassurance to Jewish students about their acceptance.
Jonathan Pidluzny, Ph.D., Director of the Higher Education Reform Initiative at the America First Policy Institute, emphasized the universities’ responsibility to ensure equal educational opportunities for all students, without discrimination based on race, sex, or national origin. He stressed the need for universities to support their Jewish students and combat antisemitism effectively.
The resolution calls on university leaders to uphold civil rights obligations outlined in Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and enhance students’ knowledge of the Holocaust and Israel’s history. It acknowledges the protection of First Amendment rights regarding criticism of Israeli policies and advocates for the reinstatement of academic freedom and debate within U.S. universities.
Key provisions of the resolution include:
- Condemnation of antisemitic violence and harassment on campuses, including bullying incidents.
- Denunciation of antisemitic chants advocating for violence against Jews and the destruction of Israel.
- Emphasis on free expression within a truth-seeking campus environment, allowing critiques of Israeli policies.
- Encouragement for university administrations to promote balance and academic integrity in educational programs related to the Holocaust and Israel, including the history of Arab Palestinians in the region.
The recent escalation in targeted violence against Jewish students necessitates immediate action. America First urges conservative student bodies opposing terrorism and supporting the First Amendment to adopt this resolution.
To access the complete resolution, click here.