Leading the Next Chapter of the Fight Against Antisemitism at Harvard

Dear fellow members of Harvard’s Jewish community,

Earlier today, Harvard’s Presidential Task Force on Combating Anti-Semitism released its long-awaited report, which both lays bare the depth of the problems that burst into view after 10/7, and charts a path by which President Garber and the university’s leadership can rededicate Harvard to tolerance and the pursuit of truth.

In many ways, the publication of this report marks the beginning of Harvard’s serious work addressing antisemitism. Our community has the opportunity and responsibility to participate in this work actively and wisely – begins by creating a shared understanding of the report’s findings and recommendations, including any shortcomings.

In partnership with the 1636 Forum, Harvard Hillel is convening the Jewish community at this critical moment – so that we will be informed, cohesive, and effective – by:

• Thursday night 5/1: holding a briefing on the report for our entire community, featuring Rabbi David Wolpe, Jared Elias (co-chair of the Antisemitism task force), and others (the recording will be available publicly for those who cannot make this time)
• Next week: Inviting members of Harvard’s governing boards to a private call on the report’s contents and recommendations
• Next Thursday 5/8: Hosting an in-person event at Hillel for students, faculty, and staff to speak directly with members of the taskforce
• Working closely with the ADL, JFNA, and other key stakeholders in the Jewish world to coordinate our community’s focus
• Speaking extensively with reporters so that our community’s story is accurately conveyed to the broader public
• Much more, most of which cannot be shared publicly

This is a critical moment for our community, and for Harvard’s future. We have the opportunity to chart a new course and a more hopeful and principled future – and we will only achieve that if we work together, from this week and for the months to come. Please join us for a community-wide Zoom call this Thursday night, May 1, at 8:30 pm ET.

Brachot,

Rabbi Jason Rubenstein
Executive Director