Pasco Reporter

Washington, DC - Congressman Gus Bilirakis has joined his colleagues in urging U.S. Department of Education Secretary Miguel Cardona to take immediate action to protect Jewish students from harassment and anti-Semitic behavior on college and university campuses. This call for action comes in response to ongoing Pro-Hamas demonstrations that have been taking place on campuses across the country and around the world following the recent brutal attack on Israel by the terrorist organization.

In a letter addressed to Secretary Cardona, the lawmakers expressed their concern over student groups that have condoned and even celebrated the terrorist attack. They highlighted the use of imagery depicting a paraglider in advertisements for these rallies, which they described as a celebration of the despicable tactics used by Hamas. President Biden himself referred to Hamas as "a group whose stated purpose for being is to kill Jews" in his remarks on October 10th.

The lawmakers reminded Secretary Cardona of schools' legal obligation under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to provide a discrimination-free environment for all students, including Jewish students. They emphasized the need for colleges and universities to promptly and appropriately respond to harassment that creates a hostile environment for Jewish students.

Congressman Bilirakis and his colleagues are urging the Department of Education to engage immediately with higher education institutions to ensure that they are fulfilling their obligations to protect Jewish students. They are calling for swift action to address the alarming rise in anti-Semitic behavior on campuses.

The letter can be viewed in its entirety [here](insert link).

The safety and well-being of all students, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, is of utmost importance. It is crucial for educational institutions to take decisive action to prevent and address incidents of discrimination and harassment. As Congressman Bilirakis stated, "We must stand together against anti-Semitism and ensure that Jewish students are protected and able to pursue their education without fear."

The Biden administration has yet to respond to the lawmakers' letter, but the urgency of the situation calls for immediate action to protect Jewish students and uphold their rights to a safe and inclusive learning environment.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://bilirakis.house.gov/media/press-releases/bilirakis-urges-biden-administration-protect-jewish-students-against