New York City Public Schools Chancellor David Banks testified before a congressional subcommittee on Wednesday, revealing that there have been 281 antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents within the school system since October 7, when Hamas launched its attack on Israel. Banks highlighted one case in particular, from Origins High School in Brooklyn, that has deeply troubled him. Representative Elise Stefanik presented allegations that 40 to 50 students marched through the school chanting “Death to Israel” and “Kill the Jews.” An independent investigation also found that a teacher was subjected to antisemitic slurs, with one student saying they wished Hitler had killed more Jews, including the teacher. Banks responded that an investigation found no evidence of the “Death to the Jews” chant but acknowledged a range of deeply troubling antisemitic incidents at Origins High School. He stated that several students had been suspended, but the case is currently under litigation, limiting his ability to discuss specific details. Banks emphasized the school system’s commitment to investigating every incident and taking appropriate disciplinary action. He also stressed the importance of preventing such incidents from occurring in the first place and the need for collaboration with community leaders and organizations to combat antisemitism and Islamophobia. The hearing, titled “Confronting Pervasive Antisemitism in K-12 Schools,” highlighted the rise of antisemitic incidents in educational institutions across the United States. Banks’ testimony shed light on the challenges faced by schools in addressing these incidents and the need for ongoing efforts to promote tolerance and respect for all students.
NYC Schools Leader Reveals Anti-Semitic Case That Has Troubled Him the Most
