Columbia University Deans Accused of Mocking Jewish Students

Columbia University deans accused Jewish students of asserting 'privilege' and mocked them for needing a place to 'huddle' to avoid antisemitism and harassment on campus, as revealed in new text messages released Tuesday. Associate deans Josef Sorett, Susan Chang-Kim, Matthew Patashnick, and Cristen Kromm exchanged dismissive and derisive texts during a May 31 alumni event about Jewish life on campus. The text messages, released by the House Education Committee, included comments such as 'Laying the case to expand physical space comes from such a place of privilege' and 'Hard to hear the woe is me, we need to huddle at the Kraft center Huh??' Columbia University had featured multicultural graduation celebrations for various student groups but not for Jewish students. The deans were later placed on leave after the text exchanges came to light.

Education Chairwoman Virginia Foxx condemned the messages, stating that they highlight the need for accountability across Columbia's campus. Columbia University officials have stated their commitment to combatting antisemitism and ensuring a safe environment for all students. The university is conducting an investigation into the deans' actions, with Sorett cooperating and recusing himself from matters related to the investigation. The incident has sparked discussions about the treatment of Jewish students on campus and the university's response to antisemitism. Columbia's campus has been a focal point for anti-Israel protests, with incidents of vandalism and disruptions involving pro-Hamas groups.

The university's handling of student protests has also come under scrutiny, with text messages revealing concerns about the effectiveness of disciplinary policies. The messages suggest that some officials believed current measures were inadequate to address disruptive protests. The release of these texts has raised questions about Columbia University's approach to maintaining order on campus and responding to student activism. The university has faced criticism for its handling of recent protests and incidents related to antisemitism. The ongoing investigation and discussions surrounding the text messages are likely to impact the campus community and the university's policies moving forward.