Hundreds of Jewish Columbia Students Released Letter: “Protesters on Campus Have Dehumanized Us”

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Jewish students at Columbia University have published a letter outlining their experiences on campus over the past six months, in the wake of rising tensions surrounding the war between Israel and Hamas. The letter, signed by hundreds of Jewish students at the university, highlights the challenges they face as they navigate anti-Semitism, misinformation, and hostility on campus.

The students emphasize their deep connection to the Jewish community, their commitment to Jewish culture and history, and their pride in their identity as Zionists. They reject the misrepresentation of their beliefs and condemn the growing anti-Semitism that has been directed towards them on campus. They also express their willingness to criticize the Israeli government when necessary, reflecting a nuanced and thoughtful approach to their support for Israel.

The letter sheds light on the experiences of Jewish students at Columbia, who have faced accusations of being “colonizers” and “oppressors” and have been subjected to hateful rhetoric and exclusion on campus. The students recount instances where they were blocked from entering parts of the campus and faced verbal attacks and threats.

Despite these challenges, the students call for peace, truth, and empathy on campus, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and understanding. They invite their peers to join them in building bridges and fostering meaningful relationships across political and religious divides.

The letter serves as a powerful testament to the complexities of Jewish identity and Zionism, as well as the ongoing struggle against anti-Semitism in academic settings. It highlights the resilience and determination of Jewish students to stand up for their beliefs and advocate for peace and understanding in the face of adversity.