Antisemitism Resources

Disclaimer: The materials on this website are informational only and do not necessarily express the views of the SCJS.

The Schusterman Center for Jewish Studies offers education, support, and acknowledgment for Jewish students, faculty, and staff at the University of Texas at Austin, many of whom have been directly impacted by antisemitic rhetoric and acts. Antisemitism is on the rise—in Austin, in Texas, and beyond. In October 2021, antisemitic banners were unfurled over a local highway, and swastikas were found graffitied at a local high school. In November, the foyer of Congregation Beth Israel in Austin was set on fire. In December of last year and January and February of this year, residents in Austin and Houston found antisemitic flyers in their mailboxes and on their driveways. And on January 15, 2022, an armed terrorist took hostages in Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas because he believed that Jews control the government. These acts targeted Jews specifically. The most recent FBI Hate Crime report (2019) found that though Jews are only 2% of the US population, they are the victims of 60% of religion-based hate crimes. These statistics chart starkly the everyday experience of Jews in our city and on our campus. The recent acts of antisemitism in Austin, in Texas, in the United States, and throughout the world are a reminder of the vital importance of the mission of the Schusterman Center for Jewish Studies to promote a deeper understanding of Jewish cultures and histories—and of the antisemitism, racism, and xenophobic hatred that continues to impact our city, state, country, and world. As a safe and supportive space for Jewish students, faculty, and staff at UT, the Schusterman Center acknowledges their lived experience of antisemitism as well as the long history that feeds it. We loudly and clearly denounce antisemitism. (Issued Friday, February 18, 2022)