Jewish Columbia student flees campus due to threats after exposing anti-Semitism
Jewish Student at Columbia University Fights Back Against Anti-Semitism
A Jewish student at Columbia University refused to be silenced after facing harassment and threats for her honest reporting on campus anti-Semitism. Instead, she took a stand and wrote an engaging article for Rolling Stone Magazine, shedding light on the pervasive anti-Semitism infecting not only her own college campus, but others as well.
Rebecca Massel, a senior staff writer for The Columbia Daily Spectator, bravely penned the article for Rolling Stone after facing backlash for her reporting on the on-campus assault of an Israeli student and the ongoing anti-Semitic protests, marches, and harassment experienced by her and fellow Jewish students.
The assault occurred shortly after the horrific attack by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians, which sparked a surge in anti-Semitic demonstrations worldwide. The victim, fearing for his safety, requested anonymity in the newspaper.
“You are disgusting,” read the subject line of an email Massel received.
The content of the email was even worse: “I hope you f***ing get what you deserve … you racist freak.”
Following the assault report, Massel faced a barrage of attacks on Sidechat, an anonymous social media platform exclusive to Columbia students. The criticisms primarily targeted her Jewish identity, accusing her of biased reporting due to the victim’s Israeli nationality. The threats and harassment became so severe that she felt compelled to leave campus, fearing for her safety.
“This was the first time that I felt unsafe and unwelcome at Columbia. Following the online comments and the harassing emails about my story, I left campus out of safety concerns and only returned after Columbia Public Safety and the Public Safety interim director confirmed that being on campus would not pose a physical risk,” Massel said.
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In another Spectator article, published a month after the Hamas attacks, Massel interviewed numerous Jewish students on campus about their experiences. Out of the 54 students she spoke to, 33 reported feeling “unsafe or targeted,” 13 had been harassed, and 12 felt the need to hide their Jewish identity. Almost all of them expressed discomfort with having their full names published.
Massel also highlighted a series of incidents, including anti-Semitic protests, marches, threats, and harassment, occurring on college campuses across the United States. She emphasized that this issue was rapidly becoming a universal problem.
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“Antisemitic incidents on campus are not new,” Massel continued. She shared an interview with a Columbia graduate student who recounted a professor’s offensive remarks about settler colonialism and genocide in relation to her Israeli background. As a result, the student now avoids mentioning her Israeli connection.
How did Rebecca Massel respond to the attacks on her Jewish identity and biased perspective in her reporting?
Imarily targeted her Jewish identity and accused her of having a biased perspective in her reporting. However, instead of succumbing to the pressure, Massel used these attacks as fuel to shed light on the prevalent anti-Semitism on campus, both within and outside of the university.
In her article for Rolling Stone, Massel showcased the various incidents of anti-Semitism that she and her fellow Jewish students at Columbia University have faced. From offensive remarks and slurs to physical assaults and threats, the experiences shared by Massel highlighted the deep-rooted prejudice that continues to plague the campus community.
Moreover, Massel went beyond the confines of her own university and emphasized the broader implications of campus anti-Semitism. By drawing attention to the connection between anti-Semitic incidents on college campuses and the global rise in anti-Semitic sentiments, Massel pointed out the urgent need for action and awareness.
Massel’s brave act of speaking out against anti-Semitism has not only garnered attention within the Columbia University community but has also resonated with a wider audience. Her article in Rolling Stone serves as a wake-up call not only for Columbia but for all educational institutions to address and confront anti-Semitism.
Anti-Semitism remains a persistent issue, but Massel’s courage and determination to raise awareness are empowering for Jewish students across the country. By shedding light on the realities of anti-Semitism, Massel encourages others to stand up against hatred and discrimination.
In response to the article, Columbia University has made statements condemning anti-Semitism and promising to take appropriate action. The university has also provided support to Massel and other Jewish students who have faced discrimination.
Massel’s article serves as a reminder that the fight against anti-Semitism is far from over. It is crucial for educational institutions, like Columbia University, to actively combat anti-Semitism by implementing educational programs, fostering dialogue, and creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
As the conversation around anti-Semitism continues, it is essential to support and amplify the voices of those standing up against hatred and bigotry. Massel’s courageous act sets an inspiring example for Jewish students and individuals of all backgrounds who refuse to be silenced in the face of discrimination.
In conclusion, Rebecca Massel’s article in Rolling Stone serves as an important reminder of the ongoing struggle against anti-Semitism. Her brave and honest reporting sheds light on the pervasive nature of anti-Semitism at Columbia University and beyond. By refusing to be silenced, Massel has sparked a crucial conversation about the urgent need to address and combat anti-Semitism on college campuses. Her work serves as an inspiration to all those who seek to create a more inclusive and respectful society.
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