Brandeis Center Files Civil Rights Complaint Against UW Over Antisemitism

The Louis Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law has filed a federal complaint against the University of Washington (UW) for fostering a hostile campus environment for Jewish students. Filed on September 24, 2024 , the complaint highlights systemic discrimination, harassment, and violence targeting Jewish students, faculty, and staff.

Key Allegations Include:

• Physical Threats and Harassment: Jewish students reported threats like “I’ll f*cking end you” and “Let’s go get the knife” while walking through the encampment, in the heart of campus.

• Exclusion and Bullying: Jewish students were obstructed from campus spaces, had their property vandalized, and were forced to leave due to intimidation.

• Ineffective Leadership: UW’s administration issued statements condemning antisemitism but failed to enforce policies to address the hostile environment.

Documented Incidents:

• Protesters succeeded in shutting down the September 12, 2024 Board of Regents meeting, forcing Jewish participants to be escorted out for safety.

• Antisemitic graffiti, including “Kill your local colonizer,” appeared across campus, along with countless threats against Zionists.

• A Jewish student faced repeated harassment, forcing him to miss classes, hide his yarmulke, and transfer schools.

Demands for Action:
The Brandeis Center calls for UW to adopt concrete measures, including security enhancements, IHRA-compliant antisemitism education, and a dedicated task force to improve campus climate for Jewish students.