Texas universities required to punish antisemitic rhetoric in free speech policies
AUSTIN (KXAN) --- On Wednesday, Gov. Greg Abbott announced an executive order to address antisemitism on college campuses in the state.
Texas colleges and universities are now required to review their free speech policies to establish appropriate punishments for antisemitic rhetoric on campuses.
"Antisemitism is never acceptable in Texas, and we will do everything we can to fight it," said Abbott in a press release.
The executive order requires all higher education institutions do the following:
- Review free speech policies to establish appropriate punishments for antisemitic rhetoric
- Enforce policies that address the sharp rise of antisemitic acts
- Include the definition of antisemitism in free speech policies
The Anti-Defamation League said it's recorded a dramatic increase in antisemitic incidents on college campuses since October 7.
It said its engaged with college officials and elected leaders to prioritize Jewish student safety.
"We support Governor Abbott’s executive order and hope this effort can be replicated for other marginalized groups targeted by hate on college campuses."
Anti-Defamation League
'It hurts your soul'
Acts of antisemitism have touched the University of Texas campus. The most recent one was towards the Jewish-life student organization Texas Hillel.
In a statement on social media, the group said someone graffitied their building and parking lot with "vulgar antisemitic epithets."
Texas Hillel said the incident is under investigation.
"Vandalism frees no one. Defacing property neither enacts justice nor promotes peace."
Texas Hillel
In a statement to KXAN, Texas Hillel said they've seen a number of antisemitic incidents in their campus community.
"We appreciate the governor's efforts to ensure that Jewish students are able to express their full Jewish identities without fear of harassment, intimidation, or violence. We are confident that the university has and continues to take seriously the importance of community and belonging and will continue to address behaviors that are in conflict with those values."
Rabbi Stephanie Max, Texas Hillel
Sarah Jones, a Jewish student at Texas State University, said she's disappointed to see that happen on a college campus.
While it didn't happen on her campus, Jones said she still feels impacted.
"We have family there. We have friends there. Even people we don't know, we know we have this innate bond to," Jones said. "It hurts your soul a little bit just to see that kind of hate being spread."
Texas State University Student Rabbi Ari Weingarten believes this is a step in the right direction.
"It's confirming and reassuring and bringing a sense of security."
Student Rabbi Ari Weingarten, Texas State University
Weingarten said this creates a safer learning environment for Jewish students.
"It's a great day for the Jewish community and for all communities, because this is something that needs to happen," Weingarten said. "It's the right thing."
In a statement sent to KXAN, Texas State University said it is reviewing this new requirement.
“Texas State University is reviewing the Governor’s executive order and will take the necessary steps to ensure compliance in a timely manner.”
Texas State University
KXAN is waiting for a statement from the University of Texas. We will update this article once a statement is received.