(Exeter, United Kingdom) – In a shocking display of intolerance and suppression of free speech, an antisemitic incident unfolded at Exeter University that has raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of students on campus.
Six Jewish students conducting a tabling session for CAMERA UK were surrounded by a hostile crowd of almost 100 people, forcing an early end to the event due to the imminent threat of physical harm.
Watch the videos below as University of Exeter CAMERA Fellow Rojin-Sena Cantay recounts the harrowing incident on campus.
The incident resulted in the university having to provide taxis for the students to ensure their safe departure from the campus. The altercation was captured on video, revealing a distressing atmosphere that compromised the principles of free expression and dialogue that are fundamental to a university environment.
“Disturbingly, university staff stood by without intervention, claiming there was no breach of law, even after a drink was thrown at the students,” said Christina Jones, communications associate for CAMERA on Campus UK. Jones added, “We have connected the students to relevant bodies such as the likes of UK Lawyers for Israel.
The protection of their right to free speech and the safety of students is paramount.”The affected students have been encouraged to provide all available evidence, including video footage, voice recordings, and written statements, to support any potential legal action. This information will be crucial in building a comprehensive case that reveals the toxic antisemitism prevailing on Exeter’s campus.
The incident at Exeter University highlights the pressing need for institutions to actively address and combat antisemitism, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students. We call on Exeter University to thoroughly investigate this matter, take appropriate disciplinary actions, and implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
See CAMERA on Campus’ public appeal to the university below.
While working to educate her peers about Israel, Exeter CAMERA Fellow Rojin-Sena Cantay was surrounded by a mob of rabid antisemites.
The students pleaded for protection. University security outrageously refused to help.@UniofExeter, we demand answers. pic.twitter.com/2bUOLaNdJN
— CAMERA on Campus (@CAMERAonCampus) March 7, 2024