Rabbi criticizes Harvard at Hanukkah event with Claudine Gay
Rabbi Hirschy Zarchi: Harvard Fails to Protect Jewish Community
Rabbi Hirschy Zarchi delivered a powerful message at a Hanukkah event attended by Harvard University President Claudine Gay, expressing his disappointment in the university’s failure to protect the Jewish community. Speaking at the menorah lighting ceremony, Zarchi stated, “It pains me to have to say, sadly, that Jew-hate and anti-Semitism is thriving on this campus. 26 years I’ve given my life to this community. I’ve never felt so alone.”
Controversy Surrounding President Claudine Gay
President Claudine Gay has faced calls for her removal from Harvard amid various controversies. These include anti-Israel demonstrations, circulating letters on campus, accusations of plagiarism, and a controversial Congressional testimony on anti-Semitism in colleges and universities.
Zarchi recalled a previous event where Gay assured attendees that Harvard would have their back. However, he expressed disappointment, stating, “We heard how Harvard pledges to have our back. We didn’t feel it last night.”
Zarchi recounted instances where he personally felt targeted, including a recent incident during the menorah lighting ceremony when a woman interrupted and screamed that anti-Semitism is a “hoax.”
The Jewish Harvard Chaplain also revealed that he was advised by the Harvard Police to get security for his family after hosting a screening of IDF-released footage of Hamas’s atrocities. He expressed his disappointment, saying, “I don’t feel that they had the back of me and my family and our community.”
Addressing President Claudine Gay
Directly addressing President Gay during his speech, Zarchi expressed the Jewish community’s longing for a day when they can refer to the president and all of Harvard as theirs. He emphasized the importance of speaking out against hateful calls for the death of Jews, stating, “You speak, you don’t remain silent.”
Although Gay made no public statement during the event, she participated by lighting the shamash, a helper candle used to light the rest of the menorah.
Challenges Faced by the Jewish Community
Zarchi revealed that the menorah must be removed and hidden after the ceremony to avoid vandalism. He expressed frustration, stating, “We in the Jewish community are instructed ‘we’ll let you have the menorah. You made your point. Okay, pack it up. Don’t leave it out overnight because there will be criminal activity, we fear, and it won’t look good.'”
Zarchi also highlighted the lack of support he feels from his fellow chaplains at Harvard, criticizing their silence in condemning the attacks on the Jewish people. He expressed concern that calls for intifada have become normalized at Harvard, stating, “Completely desensitized and indifferent to the call for murder of Jews.”
The rabbi’s powerful message serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by the Jewish community at Harvard University and the urgent need for action and support.
How have the failures to address anti-Semitism at Harvard University impacted the Jewish community on campus?
Ight: 400″>Failure to Address Anti-Semitism
Zarchi emphasized that the university has failed to adequately address anti-Semitism on campus. He stated, ”There is a failure of this university to protect the Jewish students, the faculty, and the staff. A failure to create an environment that is one of inclusivity and acceptance.”
He urged President Gay to take immediate action to address the issue, stating, “President Gay, it is time for you to step up and protect this community. It is time for you to show true leadership and make this university a safe space for all.” Zarchi also called on the administration to implement educational programs to raise awareness about anti-Semitism and its harmful consequences.
The Need for Change
Zarchi’s powerful message highlights the urgent need for change within Harvard University. Anti-Semitism is a growing concern worldwide, and it is crucial for institutions of higher education to take a stand against all forms of hatred and discrimination.
Universities have a responsibility to protect and support all members of their community, regardless of their religious or ethnic background. Failure to do so not only undermines the values of inclusivity and diversity that should be at the core of higher education institutions but also perpetuates a culture of intolerance and discrimination.
By failing to address anti-Semitism, Harvard University sends a message that it is not committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for Jewish students, faculty, and staff. This not only harms the individuals directly affected by anti-Semitism but also tarnishes the university’s reputation as an institution that upholds the principles of equality and respect for all.
Conclusion
Rabbi Hirschy Zarchi’s powerful message at the Hanukkah event sheds light on the failures of Harvard University to protect the Jewish community. President Claudine Gay’s handling of various controversies and the university’s failure to address anti-Semitism demonstrate an urgent need for change.
It is crucial for Harvard, and all institutions of higher education, to actively combat anti-Semitism and create an inclusive environment where all individuals feel valued and protected. By addressing these issues head-on, Harvard can send a clear message that it stands against hatred and discrimination, and it is committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of its community.
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