The shocking reality of antisemitism infecting our educational institutions is on full display at MIT. A professor has been accused of harassing a Jewish student to the point of driving him out of the university. This is not just an isolated incident; it’s a clear indicator of a hostile environment that needs immediate attention.
Will Sussman, a former Computer Science student, has bravely stepped forward to expose what he describes as a “climate of terror” for Jewish students at MIT. His lawsuit against the university and Professor Michel DeGraff reveals a troubling pattern of antisemitic harassment that should not be tolerated in any academic setting.
Sussman has accused Professor DeGraff of extreme anti-Semitic behavior, labeling him a “real-life case study” of Zionist “mind infection.” This blatant reference is not just a casual comment; it is a calculated effort to undermine and intimidate a student who dared to speak up against biased rhetoric in the classroom.
The situation escalated dramatically when Sussman expressed his objections to a guest lecturer’s controversial statements. Instead of fostering a respectful dialogue, DeGraff chose to attack him, involving high-profile faculty in his disdainful email exchanges. This demonstrates a distressing lack of accountability among university professors who should be mentors and educators, not perpetuators of hostility.
DeGraff’s actions, including public statements about Sussman’s alleged “mind infection,” have only incited further harassment. The infamous guest lecturer, Nurit Peled-Elhanan, is herself an Israeli Jew, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. Instead of embracing diversity of thought, MIT has allowed toxic ideologies to fester.
The administration, led by President Sally Kornbluth, has failed in its duty to protect students. Their silence in the face of harassment speaks volumes. When high-level administrators like Kornbluth choose to remain aloof during incidents of visible antisemitism, they send a clear message: Jewish students have no recourse.
MIT’s piecemeal response to the lawsuit lacks sincerity. They claim to reject antisemitism in theory while failing to take action in practice. The university must recognize that their current stance is insufficient. A robust investigation should be launched to address the claims brought forth by Sussman and to ensure a safe environment for all students.
Moreover, the inaction from MIT’s Institute Discrimination and Harassment Response Office further compounds the issue. Sussman’s complaints were reportedly ignored, indicating a systemic failure to address discrimination. The university must be held accountable for its negligence.
It is imperative that Sussman receives the support he seeks, not just for himself but for all Jewish students who may be facing similar challenges at MIT. His call for “injunctive relief” signals a crucial step toward eliminating the hostile climate for Jews and Israelis on campus and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reform.
In closing, this incident serves as a stark warning. Antisemitism, whether overt or insidious, has no place in academia. We demand decisive action from institutions like MIT to ensure that all students are afforded the dignity and safety they deserve. Anything less is unacceptable.
