Harvard University settles lawsuit with Jewish students, adopting stronger measures against anti-Semitism on campus.
At a Glance
- Harvard University reaches settlement with Students Against Antisemitism
- University to adopt IHRA definition of anti-Semitism in policy framework
- New measures include annual reports, expert training, and academic symposiums
- Actions target discrimination against Jewish and Israeli students
- One plaintiff continues separate claims against Harvard
Harvard’s New Stance on Anti-Semitism
Harvard University has taken a significant step in addressing concerns of anti-Semitism on its campus. The prestigious institution has settled a lawsuit with Jewish students who alleged inadequate response to discrimination. This settlement marks a turning point in Harvard’s approach to combating anti-Semitism and ensuring a welcoming environment for all students.
As part of the agreement, Harvard will implement several key measures to strengthen its stance against anti-Semitism. One of the most notable changes is the adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s (IHRA) definition of anti-Semitism. This move aligns Harvard with guidance from the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights and demonstrates a commitment to a more comprehensive understanding of anti-Semitic behavior.
The settlement introduces several policy changes aimed at creating a more inclusive campus environment. Harvard will now explicitly include Jewish and Israeli identities under its Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying Policies. This clarification will be made public through an online FAQ, ensuring that all members of the university community are aware of these protections.
“We are committed to ensuring our Jewish community is embraced, respected, and can thrive at Harvard,” a Harvard University spokesperson said.
Additionally, the university will address conduct that violates its Non-Discrimination Policy, including actions targeting individuals as “Zionists.” This specific inclusion aims to prevent harassment and exclusion based on political beliefs related to Israel, a common form of modern anti-Semitism.
Transparency and Education Initiatives
To ensure accountability, Harvard has committed to preparing annual public reports for the next five years detailing its response to discrimination or harassment complaints. These reports will provide transparency on disciplinary outcomes, allowing the community to track the university’s progress in addressing these issues.
“With this settlement, Harvard is demonstrating leadership in the fight against antisemitism and in upholding the rights of Jewish students,” a spokesperson for Students Against Antisemitism said.
The settlement also includes educational initiatives to combat anti-Semitism. Harvard will allocate additional resources for studying anti-Semitism and host an annual academic symposium on the topic. Furthermore, the university will provide expert training on combating anti-Semitism and promote annual training for the entire university community.
While the settlement represents significant progress, it’s important to note that one plaintiff, Alexander (Shabbos) Kestenbaum, did not join the agreement and continues his claims against Harvard. This suggests that some individuals feel more action is still needed to address anti-Semitism on campus fully.
“This resolution includes specific, meaningful actions to combat antisemitism, hate and bias on college campuses that illustrate the University’s strong commitment to further protecting their Jewish and Israeli community,” Marc Kasowitz of Kasowitz Benson Torres, LLP, counsel for Students Against Antisemitism, said.
Harvard’s actions come in response to a lawsuit filed in January 2024, which claimed the university’s indifference to anti-Semitism violated Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The settlement, while not an admission of wrongdoing, demonstrates Harvard’s commitment to addressing these concerns proactively.