Background on the Issue
Columbia University has demoted three deans—Cristen Kromm, Matthew Patashnick, and Susan Chang-Kim—after text messages surfaced that were deemed to touch on antisemitic tropes. The messages were exchanged following a panel discussion on antisemitism during the school’s alumni reunion on May 31. Screenshots of these messages were leaked to The Washington Free Beacon, which published the details on June 12.
The deans involved were Cristen Kromm, Dean of Undergraduate Student Life; Matthew Patashnick, Associate Dean for Student and Family Support; and Susan Chang-Kim, Vice Dean and Chief Administrative Officer. Josef Sorett, Dean of Columbia College, was also involved in the discussion but retained his position.
Details of the Controversial Messages
The text messages included dismissive and derogatory comments about the panel discussion and its participants. For example, Patashnick commented on the panelist’s potential fundraising value and the panel discussion itself, followed by negative reactions from Kromm and Chang-Kim. The comments also included derogatory emojis and remarks about the financial aspects of the discussion.
The panel had included Columbia junior Rebecca Massel, who highlighted that many Jewish students felt pressured to prove their support for Israel in order to be accepted. Another panelist claimed that Jewish students had been excluded from college clubs, which Patashnick dismissed, saying he was unaware of such instances but acknowledged that many Jewish students felt unwelcome.
Institutional Response
Columbia University has announced that starting this fall, all students, faculty, and staff will undergo mandatory anti-discrimination training with a focus on antisemitism. This initiative aims to address and mitigate instances of discrimination within the university.
Criticisms and Future Considerations
Critics argue that the planned training may not fully address the complexities of antisemitism. They emphasize the need for the training to include specific aspects related to Jewish identity, including:
- The significance of the Land of Israel in Judaism
- The history and impact of modern Zionism
- The establishment of the state of Israel and its historical context
- The role of Israel in American Jewish identity
- The Holocaust’s importance as a living memory for the American Jewish community
Experts suggest that a more comprehensive approach is necessary to effectively combat antisemitism and promote understanding within the academic environment.
FAQ
1. What triggered the demotion of the Columbia deans?
The demotion followed the leak of text messages exchanged by the deans that contained derogatory and dismissive comments about antisemitism and related issues discussed at a panel.
2. Who are the deans involved in this controversy?
The deans involved are Cristen Kromm, Matthew Patashnick, and Susan Chang-Kim. Josef Sorett was also involved but remains in his position.
3. What did the text messages contain?
The messages included snarky comments and derogatory emojis about the panel discussion on antisemitism and the financial implications of such discussions.
4. What actions is Columbia University taking in response?
Columbia University will implement mandatory anti-discrimination training with a focus on antisemitism for all students, faculty, and staff starting this fall.
5. What are the criticisms of the university’s response?
Critics argue that the training may not address the specific issues related to Jewish identity and the historical and cultural context of antisemitism, suggesting a need for a more detailed and nuanced approach.
6. Why is it important to address these issues comprehensively?
Addressing these issues comprehensively is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and respectful academic environment and effectively combating antisemitism.
