Harvard, MIT & Penn

Reflecting on the antisemitic situation at Harvard, MIT, and Penn today has left me so sad, angry, and perplexed. Despite not celebrating Hanukkah, I recognize it as a season of peace, extending into Christmas and the New Year. 

Basic human rights are fundamental rights and freedoms that every person is entitled to, irrespective of race, nationality, gender, religion, or any other status. Right to life. Freedom from inhumane treatment. Right to health. Right to work. Freedom of religion. Right to equality. Right to education.

Yet a significant flaw in our country lies in the education system. Straying from a consistent history curriculum, coupled with the passing of WWII veterans who often kept reservation about their experiences, including my grandfather who assisted in liberating Bergen-Belsen and working under General Patton in the United States Army, has deprived us of crucial lessons. The haunting memories of the atrocities endured by these veterans and survivors persisted until their final breaths and carry on in generational trauma.

Intriguingly, despite universities mandating COVID vaccinations, their reluctance to address resignations over antisemitic viewpoints is a shameful evasion of responsibility.

The news of a Penn donor retracting a planned $100 million gift is heartening, and I am optimistic that more will follow suit.

The unique stance of University Leadership leaves me questioning, who are their remaining donors?

This story hits me hard because I hold a very dear place in my heart for the Harvard-trained doctors at Boston Children’s. I can attest that there are many wonderful doctors at Boston Children’s. Regardless of their diverse backgrounds, including being Jewish, their collaborative efforts to save my son underscore the importance of working together for the well-being of all humanity.

God willing, our world will see some peace, even if it is in the slightest sliver of candlelight or Christmas light. We must look for the light wherever we may find it. It is the season for doing so anyway, and it is a season for miracles celebrated generation over generation.

Lest we not forget.