Staff Reports
In a shocking incident at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., unauthorized projections were displayed on the exterior of the library on Tuesday evening. These projections not only violated university policy, but they also contained deeply anti-Semitic messages. However, the university’s response, while acknowledging the unauthorized nature of the projections, failed to condemn the anti-Semitic views expressed.
GW Issues Statement on Anti-Semitic Projections on Campus https://t.co/QR8Q7sFYnV
— Aaron Venable (@AaronJVenable) October 25, 2023
The university’s statement emphasized their concern for the “distress, hurt, and pain” caused by the incident, but it notably did not directly address the vile anti-Semitic nature of the messages. This was not an innocent prank; it was a deliberate call for the destruction of Israel and the Jewish people. It called for the glorification of Hamas terrorists who have committed heinous acts of violence against innocent civilians, including women and children.
It is deeply troubling that GW administrators chose not to explicitly condemn these views. Instead, they simply stated that the views expressed do not reflect the university’s own views. It begs the question: Why is it so difficult for them to publicly condemn those who advocate for the slaughter of Jews and the eradication of Israel?
Furthermore, the university’s promise to review the incident raises doubts about whether any meaningful action will be taken. Will those responsible face appropriate consequences for their discriminatory conduct? Or will GW simply sweep this incident under the rug?
Messages such as “Glory to Our Martyrs,” “Divestment From Zionist Genocide Now,” and “Free Palestine From The River To The Sea” were projected onto the campus, explicitly promoting the elimination of Israel and the Jewish people. These messages are not just offensive; they are dangerous and contribute to a climate of hatred and violence.
It is imperative that GW takes swift and decisive action to condemn these anti-Semitic incidents and ensure that the campus remains a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Failure to do so would send a chilling message to the entire community that anti-Semitism is tolerated and even condoned.
The university’s response to the anti-Semitic projections at GW is deeply disappointing. Instead of unequivocally condemning the views expressed, they chose to focus on community support. It is crucial that GW follows through on their promise to review the incident and take appropriate action against those involved. Anti-Semitism has no place on our college campuses, and it is the responsibility of university administrators to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.
