Investigation Initiated into Alleged Anti-Semitism in Baltimore Schools
Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS) is under investigation by the Department of Education (ED) following claims of unchecked anti-Semitism within the district.
Complaints submitted to the ED’s Civil Rights Division accuse the district of not taking action against a teacher who allegedly made alarming comments, including a threat to “go to all Nazis.” The specific remark referenced a desire to show respect to Jewish students through the lens of Nazi ideology. Reports indicate that, despite BCPS looking into the matter, no disciplinary measures were taken against the teacher involved.
“The allegations that Baltimore public schools allow this kind of Nazi-inspired anti-Semitic harassment to persist are both horrifying and infuriating,” said Craig Trainer, a civil rights aide at the ED. He noted that instances where teachers directed Jewish students to perform Nazi salutes or made remarks like “All Jews should die” go far beyond mere bullying.
BCPS did not respond to a request for comment regarding the situation.
Furthermore, students reportedly faced harassment on school grounds, including receiving Nazi salutes, finding Nazi graffiti on school property, and hearing messages suggesting they should call Hamas for violent action against Jews.
If these claims are accurate, they highlight a concerning trend in educational institutions failing to uphold a safe and respectful environment. Trainer emphasized that the Civil Rights Office will actively investigate these issues to ensure that Jewish students can learn and thrive without facing discrimination.
This investigation is part of a broader pattern, as numerous schools and universities have come under scrutiny for civil rights violations related to anti-Semitism. Notably, protests erupted on campuses following attacks by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to an increased awareness and reaction against harassment faced by Jewish students.
In response, some educational institutions have implemented measures to combat harassment, including definitions of anti-Semitism aimed at preventing criticism of Jews and Israel.
