Arrr! The scurvy college presidents be revealin' their moral weakness to the land o' America, mateys!
2023-12-07
Arr, mateys! Three captains o' the most esteemed universities in America be sailin' to Capitol Hill this week. But, by Davy Jones' locker! Their refusal to speak against hate and the surgin' tide of antisemitism be explainin' why it be thrivin' like a mighty kraken!
The U.S. House of Representatives called on the presidents of Harvard, MIT, and the University of Pennsylvania to address the rise of antisemitism on their campuses. However, their responses were disappointing, with a lack of direct answers and acknowledgment of inconsistencies in their institutions' response to hatred towards Jews. Republican Representative Elise Stefanik attempted to question the presidents about calling for the genocide of Jews constituting bullying, harassment, and intimidation, but they refused to give a clear yes or no answer. They argued that punishment would depend on the context, suggesting that only conduct, not mere calls for murder, would be subject to discipline. This shows a shocking display of moral cowardice and intellectual dishonesty.The universities' sudden adoption of an absolutist free-speech position is surprising, considering their history of not upholding that principle when non-Jews were targeted. Harvard and Penn have poor records in protecting free speech, with both institutions taking action against individuals for their statements or associations. MIT scores better in free-speech rankings but has its own issues, such as refusing to enforce its own rules against anti-Israel protestors to protect foreign students.
The hypocrisy of universities suddenly championing free speech when Jews are targeted is problematic. While universities should foster differing perspectives, they should do so in service of the search for truth, which should be the central mission of higher education. Moreover, universities receiving federal subsidies must ensure that students do not face significant harassment based on their race, sex, or ethnicity, including Jews. The U.S. Department of Education has launched investigations into Harvard and Penn for violating Jewish students' civil rights.
External pressure is needed to bring about change. Congress should reconsider the generous subsidies provided to these universities that tolerate antisemitism. Donors should demand accountability and stop funding institutions that exhibit irresponsible leadership. The removal of the presidents of these universities would be a powerful form of accountability, as it would send a message to other administrators.