- Three Columbia University deans resigned after an investigation into antisemitic text messages.
- The messages surfaced during an event discussing Jewish life on campus.
- The university criticized the messages as unprofessional and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Three deans at Columbia University resigned following the discovery of text messages containing antisemitic tropes.
The deans involved—Cristen Kromm, Matthew Patashnick, and Susan Chang-Kim—were initially placed on leave during the investigation.
Columbia Deans Step Down Amid Antisemitic Text Scandal
Columbia University is grappling with the fallout from a scandal involving three of its deans who exchanged text messages containing antisemitic tropes. The messages came to light during an event focused on Jewish life on campus, igniting concerns about bias and discrimination within the university’s administration. This incident has further fueled discussions about the responsibilities of educational institutions in combating hate speech.
The deans involved—Cristen Kromm, Matthew Patashnick, and Susan Chang-Kim—were placed on administrative leave as soon as the messages were uncovered. The university quickly launched an investigation, which concluded with the deans’ resignations. Columbia University emphasized the importance of addressing such behavior to maintain a respectful and inclusive campus atmosphere.
The text messages were exchanged during a time of heightened tension on campuses across the U.S., with protests over Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Columbia’s response to this incident underscores its commitment to addressing issues of antisemitism and ensuring that such sentiments have no place within its community. The swift action taken by the university has been seen as a necessary step in upholding its values.
While the exact content of the messages has not been fully revealed, Columbia’s administration has condemned them as perpetuating harmful stereotypes. The resignations of these senior administrators mark a significant moment for the university, reflecting its stance against any form of discrimination or prejudice.
This incident at Columbia University serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance against antisemitism and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment in educational institutions.
“This incident revealed behavior and sentiments that were not only unprofessional but also disturbingly touched on ancient antisemitic tropes,” the university said in July.
