Officials Want Pro-Palestinian Group Off CUNY Campuses

BROOKLYN

More than 30 New York officials have signed a letter calling for the “immediate suspension” of Students for Justice in Palestine from City University of New York college campuses.

The letter, spearheaded by state Sen. Simcha Felder, and Assemblymen Dov Hikind and David Weprin, comes after pro-Palestinian students were accused of anti-Semitic rhetoric at recent college events.

“We recognize the fundamental right of individuals and groups to speak out and express their thoughts and feelings on college campuses. In fact we encourage students to do so, for they are our future,” read the letter to CUNY Chancellor James B. Milliken. “At the same time, civil discourse, behavior and respect is also expected, even demanded, from those who wish to present their views and ideas.”

“Instead of recognizing the diverse nature and make-up of the college community,” the letter noted, “SJP has fomented hatred, bigotry and racism against pro-Israeli supporters and has incited violence against Jews.”

A spokesman for CUNY told Hamodia that the University system “has issued a strong condemnation of discrimination or harassment against any member of the community,” and that “allegations will be reviewed with great seriousness, including with the outside counsel who have undertaken at the request of CUNY’s leadership, a review reported anti-Semitic incidents.”

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