Anti Semitic Vandalism at Indiana University

Parents Forum
1

<p>My daughter is in graduate school for Ethnomusicology at Indiana University. She has a TA position in the undergraduate Jewish studies program. Today she called with some very disturbing news. I wonder if there have been other incidences on other campus? Here is the following email sent to the students.</p>

<p>Dear IUB Student -</p>

<p>In the last week, rocks have been thrown through windows at the Helene G. Simon Hillel Center and the Chabad House Jewish Student Center, and a rock was thrown at the staff directory sign for the Jewish Studies program. There has also been vandalism of Hebrew books at the Wells Library. All these incidents have been reported to police and to the FBI and all are under intense investigation.</p>

<p>We explicitly condemn these criminal acts of vandalism on campus and in our community. The anti-Semitic significance of these targeted and malicious acts is beyond any serious doubt and cannot be minimized. There is no place for anti-Semitism at Indiana University or anywhere else. We will not tolerate intimidation of any kind against anyone in the university community, nor will we tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, gender, religion, ethnic origin, sexual orientation or political position.</p>

<p>Indiana University is a place where a spirit of learning and acceptance prevail and where all are welcome. We aim to ensure the safety and well-being of all members of our community, and we are governed by ideals of civility and respect.</p>

<p>We are committed to taking all steps necessary to keep our campus safe. The IU Police and the Bloomington Police are increasing uniformed and plain clothes patrols, and they are implementing a variety of measures to find and arrest the person or persons responsible for the incidents that have occurred. We will not tolerate this criminal activity. On the eve of Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, we once again affirm our commitment to enlightenment and civility.</p>

<p>Sincerely,</p>

<p>Karen Hanson
Provost and Executive Vice President</p>

2

<p>How horrible. I wonder if any campus cameras caught anything.</p>

3

<p>Growing up in Indiana, I was always aware that the KKK was still very active in the counties surrounding IU. It sounds awful to say, but I am hoping they discover that it is not students.</p>

4

<p>Yes - I saw this article last night and posted it on the Jewish parents thread. The implication in the article was the the incidents were timed to coincide with Hanukah. Very sad.</p>