Pace University student government adopts international Definition of Antisemitism

The student government of Pace University in New York City adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism on 28th October.

Within the resolution, the student government is described as a forum in which students can voice their concerns on issues presented by the administration and student body more widely, with aims to create a diverse, empowering and inclusive community. Referencing a recent spike in antisemitic incidents across the country, the resolution outlines how Jewish students constitute a significant part of the University’s community, while still remaining a distinct and important cultural and religious community which the University is determined to support and defend on campus.

Students noted the 2019 shooting at a kosher supermarket in Jersey City and a recent series of assaults against Jews in Brooklyn as key motivating factors for the adoption of the Definition. Furthermore, concerns have grown amongst the Jewish student body following the vandalism of a Pace University building when a wall was desecrated with a Star of David drawn in faeces in 2019.

The resolution also notes that Jews and Jewish institutions are increasingly the most targeted victims of hate crimes in the United States.

The resolution was introduced by a student at the school and the President of its chapter of Students Supporting Israel, and it was supported by other Jewish groups.

Campaign Against Antisemitism has expanded our coverage of antisemitism worldwide. Please contact us if you would like to share feedback or volunteer to assist with this project.