DePaul University ‘outraged’ by masked attack against two Jewish students

Tensions on campuses after a spate of anti-Israel protests erupted in the spring have largely abated, even after students returned in the fall. Some universities opted to cancel their commencement ceremonies earlier this spring for the safety of their students. DePaul University did have an encampment of protesters on its campus, but it was cleared without incident, and the university went on with its graduation as usual.

“I’m appalled to share that the attack targeted two Jewish students at DePaul who were visibly showing their support for Israel,” DePaul President Robert L. Manuel wrote in an email to students. “Masked attackers punched our students, who sustained physical injuries but declined medial treatment.”

The attackers remain anonymous and at large. Manuel solicited tips surrounding the incidents from its Department of Public Safety. Additionally, the Chicago Police Department got involved, and will determine whether the battery will fall under a hate crime.

“We are outraged that this occurred on our campus. It is completely unacceptable and a violation of DePaul’s values to uphold and care for the dignity of every individual,” Manuel went on. “We recognize that for a significant portion of our Jewish community, Israel is a core part of their Jewish identity. Those students — and every student — should feel safe on our university campus.”

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Anti-Jewish hate crimes were already on the rise nationally, increasing by more than double at the start of October 2023, according to FBI crime data. The Bureau recorded almost 2,000 hate crimes committed against Jewish people last year and has yet to produce the data for this year.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, there were 8,873 antisemitic incidents recorded across the U.S. This was a 140% increase from 2022.