WOULD YOU SEND YOUR JEWISH CHILD TO A U.S. COLLEGE?
Since October 7, concern has been raised about rising anti-Zionism and antisemitism on college campuses. We asked Reddit users: If you had Jewish kids right now, would you be comfortable sending them to an American university? Here are a few responses, lightly edited for space and clarity.
From u/No-Teach9888: I’m the parent of a high school senior. We eliminated one school due to a pattern of antisemitism; another is possibly on the chopping block. I don’t want my kid to be standing up for Jews like some have suggested. If they were entering grad school or already established, that might be a different story, but I’m not willing to send my teen into the lion’s den. Freshman year is complicated enough.
From u/Supernova_was_taken: As a Jewish student at Colby College, I’m feeling safe and I’m satisfied with how everything’s been handled. But that’s not every college. What that means is don’t discount American colleges entirely, but do make sure you do some extra research about the climate at colleges of interest, such as reaching out to their on-campus Jewish organizations.
From u/Br4z3nBu77: I have children, eight to be exact. At this point I would only consider sending my kids to private universities. Preferably Orthodox (though even YU is having problems) or Christian evangelical universities, as they would be safe places (physically) for Jews.
From u/_wishy_bone: Cornell student here—I would send them. Many years ago Jews weren’t even allowed to attend. Antisemitism isn’t stopping me from getting the best education I can, nor will I give antisemites what they want: Jews out of prestigious institutions.
From u/Chemical_Working3511: Raise them with self respect and discipline, and know that Jews aren’t liked except by a very small (and getting smaller) group of people. My son does MMA four times a week, and I train him with other forms of defense in the hope that it will be a waste of time. But if shit hits the fan, he’s the Jew you need. Wake up or continue being a victim. It’s your choice.
From u/loselyconscious: I am a PhD student spending a lot of time on the UC Berkeley campus. I would not say there is any risk to a Jewish student’s physical safety or their ability to succeed here. I have heard antisemitic statements (usually more ignorant than signifying a desire to hurt Jews). There is a good chance a Jewish student will hear a few of these over the course of their four years at Cal or any American university. In my opinion, [it’s] not enough to feel like it’s a bad idea to send a Jewish student to school.