Governor Kathy Hochul Fails to Take Action Against Colleges Permitting Antisemitism
Following a tumultuous spring semester marked by encampments on New York college campuses, anti-Semitic chants at NYU, and pro-Hamas protests at Columbia’s Hamilton Hall, Jewish students were hoping for a peaceful fall semester, free from hatred and disruption.
Unfortunately, the anti-Semites have returned with full force.
Cornell Professor Russell Rickford is once again making headlines.
He achieved notoriety for his comments celebrating the Oct. 7 massacre of over 1,200 Jews.
The university, like many others in America, failed to hold him accountable.
This week, upon returning from a voluntary leave, he participated in a student rally across campus chanting “Long Live the Intifada” and disrupting a career fair.
How is it possible that this sympathizer of terrorism remains employed by Cornell and goes unpunished for his actions?
The answer may lie with Cornell’s ex officio Board of Trustees member, New York Gov. Hochul.
Instead of taking decisive action against this professor immediately after his offensive remarks, Hochul chose not to intervene. Despite his continued behavior and calls for the genocide of Jews, she remains inactive in ensuring consequences for his actions.
Her failure to address this issue is a contributing factor to the prevalence of anti-Semitism on college campuses.
This is not the first instance of Hochul’s inability to tackle anti-Semitism effectively.
During my gubernatorial campaign in 2022, I encountered Jewish voters who expressed feeling unsafe in public spaces and targeted due to their religious beliefs.
Incidents of anti-Semitic vandalism and attacks were on the rise, while Hochul’s policies regarding yeshiva education added to the community’s concerns.
It is time for strong leadership that prioritizes the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers, including the Jewish community.
With our votes at the ballot box, we have the power to elect officials who will stand up against hatred and discrimination.
Lee Zeldin represented eastern Long Island in Congress from 2015 to 2023.
