A resolution strongly condemning the rise of antisemitism on campuses of institutions of higher education across the United States.
If passed, it would urge the Department of Education to ensure that institutions receiving federal financial assistance are compliant with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. This encompasses protections against antisemitism, establishing a legal framework that encourages educational institutions to actively safeguard Jewish students from discrimination and hostility on campus.
SR670 is a resolution put forth in the U.S. Senate that strongly condemns the rise of antisemitism at institutions of higher education across the United States. The resolution comes in the wake of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, after which a 700 percent increase in antisemitic incidents on campuses was reported. The resolution expresses concern that Jewish students, students perceived as Jewish, and Israeli students have faced threats, harassment, and violence, a situation that has prompted legislative action to better protect these populations on college campuses.
There's a notable contention surrounding the role of university administrators in facilitating safe environments for all students. The resolution criticizes those in positions of power within educational institutions who have, implicitly or explicitly, allowed antisemitic rhetoric to proliferate. By addressing the complicit behavior of some administrators, SR670 raises questions about the responsibility of educational leaders to counteract hate speech and uphold civil rights in academic settings.