Daniel Island Tackles Antisemitism on College Campuses
On a balmy Monday night in Daniel Island, South Carolina, a group of community leaders, students, and politicians gathered to discuss an issue that's been making headlines: antisemitism on college campuses. The event, featuring U.S. Senator Tim Scott and U.S. Representative Nancy Mace, took place at the lovely Daniel Pointe Retirement Community and aimed to create a space for open dialogue about the rising tide of hate.
A Shared Experience
The roundtable brought together a diverse group of attendees, including Jewish Rabbis Yossi Refson and Sholom Mimran, student advocate Shabbos Kestenbaum, and students from local universities. As they sat around, each participant shared their personal experiences, shedding light on the uncomfortable reality many Jewish students face today.
Among them was Andrew Baxley, a student at the College of Charleston, who recounted how his vocal stance against the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel led to serious consequences for him. "I was removed as secretary of the Amnesty International student group after making posts condemning the attack," he explained. His posts included clear statements against antisemitism and, shockingly, led to his resignation as president of the College Democrats. "The far left isn’t fighting for your rights; they spread hate," Baxley said, visibly upset.
Struggles at USC
The situation at the University of South Carolina wasn't much different, according to student leader Caroline Finch. She highlighted instances where Jewish professors were investigated simply for wearing symbols that reflected their identity. "It’s outrageous that expressing one’s belief can lead to such hostility. We experienced aggressive confrontations at our vigil on October 7, with pro-Palestinian protestors causing chaos," she said.
A Call for Action
As the discussion flowed, Nancy Mace passionately emphasized the importance of having these conversations now, particularly as we approach significant dates like October 7 and the ongoing conflicts in Israel. "Our support for Israel is unwavering, and we must stand up against this wave of antisemitism in our communities and on our campuses," she reminded the audience. There was a palpable sense of urgency in her voice, especially considering she had planned a trip to Israel that was thwarted by the current tensions.
Stand Together Against Hate
Senator Scott reinforced the idea that college campuses should be safe havens for all students. "Coming to this country on a college visa does not give anyone the right to spread hate and division," said Scott, firmly establishing the notion that antisemitism is unacceptable. He urged everyone to stand in solidarity with the Jewish community, stating, "We should not only stand shoulder to shoulder with them but in front of them as well."
Maintaining Safe Spaces
Through compelling dialogue, Rabbi Yossi Refson shared his thoughts on the matter, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where students of faith feel comfortable being themselves. "This is a nation built on faith, and it's about time we take a firm stand against hate," he urged.
Mace echoed similar sentiments, asserting that college campuses should foster open discussions rather than hostility. "While freedom of expression is important, there must be boundaries. Encouraging violence or promoting hateful ideologies has no place in our educational institutions," she stated.
The Road Ahead
As the conversation wrapped up, both Mace and Scott discussed potential solutions, emphasizing that universities should be held accountable for the culture they foster. "If funding is flowing to these institutions, they have a responsibility to prevent antisemitism from taking root on their campuses," Mace declared, fully aware of the stakes involved.
The evening ended on a hopeful note, with participants feeling empowered to speak out against hate and champion a community filled with understanding and love. In a world occasionally plagued by division, the conversations held that night in Daniel Island reaffirmed the belief that unity can conquer hate.
