Introduction to the Incident
Antisemitic graffiti that appeared early Monday on two buildings at Northwestern University was removed before classes started. Police were notified of the graffiti about 4 a.m. outside University Hall and Kresge Centennial Hall, which houses the school’s Holocaust Educational Foundation, and crews quickly removed the red spray-painted messages, according to a crime notice sent by Northwestern police chief Bruce Lewis.
University Response
“Early this morning, a group of individuals vandalized several buildings on our Evanston campus, spray-painting antisemitic slogans and hate-filled language,” President Michael Schill sent in an email to students. “The fact that these acts occurred during the commencement of the Passover holiday makes these disgusting statements all the more despicable.”
Details of the Graffiti
Unity of Fields, a pro-Palestinian solidarity organization, posted photos of the graffiti on X submitted from an anonymous source. Those photos showed red paint spattered and poured down the staircases leading to both buildings. Other photos showed the words “Death to Israel” and red handprints left on doorways and “Intifada now” spray-painted on the sidewalk.
Student Reaction
Or Yahalom, an American-Israeli student at Northwestern, said that when she received the message about the graffiti, she wasn’t surprised and just felt numb to the language used. “I don’t think that this is the worst that it could get, but maybe people’s eyes will open from this kind of language directly attacking a group of students on campus,” she said.
Investigation and University Actions
The Department of Education has launched an investigation into “widespread antisemitic harassment” at the university. Northwestern spokesperson Jon Yates said the university “has fully cooperated with investigations by both the Department of Education and Congress.” Last month, Northwestern published a progress report on its efforts to combat antisemitism. In it the university reported that it had an 88% decrease in reports of antisemitism between November 2023 and November 2024. “As a University, we should take pride in the progress we have made over the past year, but we can never become complacent,” Schill said.
Conclusion
The swift removal of antisemitic graffiti from Northwestern University’s buildings underscores the institution’s commitment to combating hate speech and ensuring a safe environment for all students. However, the incident also highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing antisemitism on campus. The university’s efforts to reduce antisemitic incidents and the launch of investigations by the Department of Education are crucial steps towards creating a more inclusive community.
FAQs
What happened at Northwestern University?
Antisemitic graffiti was found on two buildings at Northwestern University, which was quickly removed by the authorities.
What was the response of the university president?
The president, Michael Schill, condemned the acts, calling them "disgusting statements" and emphasizing the need for the university to combat antisemitism.
Is the university taking any actions against antisemitism?
Yes, the university has reported an 88% decrease in antisemitic incidents over the past year and is cooperating with investigations by the Department of Education.
How did students react to the incident?
One student expressed feeling numb to the language used but hoped the incident would raise awareness about the issue of antisemitism on campus.
