Berkeley Professor Goes on “Sit-In” in Office to Protest Antisemitism on Campus
A Berkeley professor has taken a bold stand against antisemitism on campus by moving into his office for a “sit-in” after accusing the Northern California school of failing to address the issue effectively. Professor Ron Hassner, the Helen Diller Family Chair in Israel Studies at the school, brought a sleeping bag into his office and vowed to stay there until necessary steps are taken to prevent violence between students.
Hassner’s protest comes in the wake of escalating tensions on campus following Hamas’ unprovoked attack on Israel in October. The professor expressed concern for the safety of his students, stating, “If my students feel that they cannot walk safely across campus without being bullied, then I will not cross campus either.”
In a letter to UC Berkeley Chancellor Carol Christ and Provost Benjamin Hermalin, Hassner emphasized the importance of addressing antisemitism and creating a safe environment for all students. He also announced that he would be teaching all of his classes on Zoom and encouraged his colleagues to do the same until the campus is free from antisemitism.
The professor’s protest has garnered support from his colleagues, with eight of them agreeing to start teaching their classes on Zoom in solidarity with him. Hassner’s actions have sparked a conversation about the university’s handling of antisemitism and the need for decisive action to address the issue.
Berkeley and other campuses have been the targets of antisemitic attacks in recent months, prompting concerns about the safety and well-being of Jewish students. Hassner’s sit-in serves as a powerful statement against hate and discrimination, urging the university to take meaningful steps to combat antisemitism on campus.
The school administration has acknowledged Hassner’s concerns and stated that they are in conversation with him about the issue. As the protest continues, the Berkeley community is grappling with the impact of antisemitism and the importance of creating a campus environment where all students feel safe and supported.
