Brooklyn Law School takes stand against antisemitism, Islamophobia and other forms of hate

November 27, 2023 Robert Abruzzese, Courthouse Editor

Dean and President David Meyer of Brooklyn Law School addressed the community on the school's commitment to combat anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of hate, reinforcing the importance of a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Law School

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In an address to the Brooklyn Law School community, President and Dean David Meyer spoke out against the troubling rise of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of hate, both nationally and within the school’s own community.

The message, dated Nov. 17, 2023, emphasizes the school’s commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment.

“Let me be clear: antisemitism, Islamophobia, or other forms of hatred have no place at Brooklyn Law School and hateful acts directed at members of our community will not be tolerated,” Meyer wrote. “While our policies rightly offer robust protection for speech and expression, that protection also requires ‘respect for the dignity of others’ and the rights of other members of our community to be free from discrimination and all forms of harassment based on religion, ethnicity, or national origin, among other protected categories.”

The past six weeks have been particularly challenging for the community, Meyer explained, with members deeply affected by the recent terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent military response in Gaza.

Adding to the distress, the law school community has witnessed an alarming surge of hate incidents, including acts of violence against Jews and Muslims in the United States.

There has also been disturbing rhetoric online and on campus, deepening divisions and exacerbating tensions. In one reported incident, a student found graffiti displaying the Star of David and a symbol associated with Palestine in a library study room reserved for the Jewish Law Students Association, causing significant distress.

President Meyer stated unequivocally that antisemitism, Islamophobia, or other forms of hatred have no place at Brooklyn Law School. He affirmed the school’s commitment to enforcing its rules of conduct and non-discrimination policies. An investigation led by the law school’s department of public safety is underway to address the library incident.

To further safeguard the community, Brooklyn Law School is enhancing security measures and launching an online portal for the anonymous reporting of campus safety concerns. This initiative reflects the school’s proactive approach to addressing and preventing acts of hate.

Brooklyn Law School’s legacy, dating back to its founding in 1901, has been one of inclusivity and community, transcending divisions and prejudices. Meyer called on every member of the Brooklyn Law School community to uphold these values, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, reasoned debate, and collective action to preserve the school’s special ethos.

The school is also hosting community breakfasts to provide a space for students, faculty, and staff to come together in solidarity and support. These gatherings are part of the school’s ongoing efforts to foster a sense of community and belonging amidst these challenging times.