On October 25th, 2023, the President of Emory University, Gregory L. Fenves, condemned the virulently antisemitic chants yelled during a protest organized by the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter at Emory University.
We applaud President Fenve’s efforts in promptly identifying and condemning antisemitism. We believe this is a necessary step in curtailing the viral spread of antisemitism on college and university campuses by anti-Zionist student groups.
We hope university administrators follow Fenves’ example to protect Jewish and pro-Israel students on campus.
Read President Fenves’ statement below in its entirety:
Dear Emory Community,
Earlier today, there was a protest on our Atlanta campus by members of the Emory community. Throughout the event, antisemitic phrases and slogans were repeatedly used by speakers and chanted by the crowd. I cannot be more clear—this kind of rhetoric has no place at Emory. I am appalled by this behavior. It violates our core values, particularly our commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all who learn, work, and live on our campuses.
The terrorist atrocities and ensuing war in Israel and Gaza have horrified us all, and the continued loss of innocent life is deeply painful. So many at Emory have risen to meet this challenging moment—fostering dialogue, hosting vigils, relying on our religious leaders across faiths, and leaning into the expertise of our scholars. But antisemitic slogans degrade that important work and the mutual respect that underpins the Emory community.
Emory has a long and distinguished history of supporting open expression. We welcome peaceful protests. We welcome a vast range of ideas and perspectives. But antisemitism targeting Jewish members of our community, even as part of a protest protected by our Open Expression policy, must be called out for what it is—divisive and reprehensible.
No matter how strongly you feel about an issue, there is another perspective to consider and there are other people with their own beliefs, values, and history that you may not agree with or fully understand. Seek out that other perspective. Seek understanding over division and hateful attacks.
Your words are powerful. I urge you to use them respectfully and in a manner that values every person at Emory. That isn’t too much to ask. It’s simply the right thing to do.
Sincerely,
Gregory L. Fenves
President
Reposted from the official website for the Office of the President at Emory University.