Combating Antisemitism

Supporting Jewish Students at Boston University: Our Ongoing Commitment

Amid rising anti-Jewish hostility nationwide since the tragic events of Oct. 7, 2023, BU Hillel stands as a crucial hub where Jewish students can find support, community, and strength. Our work is rooted in fostering a proud, safe, and vibrant Jewish life on campus—ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and cared for.

This page outlines two vital pillars of our mission: how students can report antisemitic incidents so they are taken seriously and addressed promptly, and how BU Hillel actively combats hate and nurtures Jewish identity through diverse programs, education, and leadership initiatives.

Reporting Antisemitic Incidents at BU

If you experience or witness antisemitism, discrimination, or bias at Boston University, please know that we take these incidents very seriously. We highly encourage you to report them directly to BU’s Equal Opportunity Office (EOO). Reporting helps ensure your safety and allows BU to respond appropriately.

To file a report, please visit the EOO incident form here:
Report an Incident to BU’s Equal Opportunity Office

How BU Hillel Supports Jewish Students and Combats Antisemitism

BU Hillel is deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and vibrant Jewish community. Here are some of the key ways we combat hate and support Jewish life on campus:

Israel & Jewish Identity Programming

Israel trips: BU Birthright is a free 10-day trip for Jewish students to explore their Jewish histories and identities. We also host Israel Uncovered where we take a trip of 75% non-Jewish students with 25% Jewish students to explore the land, peoples, and state of Israel.
Jewish and Israel Education: Courses like Fighting Hate and Antisemitism and events featuring Israeli leaders, veterans, and educators via our Jewish learning fellowship classes.
Israeli Staff: Our team includes Israeli staff members who bring lived experience and cultural connection including two Jewish Agency Israel Fellows.
Building Bridges Interns: Programs that foster dialogue and understanding between diverse groups on campus and recruit students for our Israel Uncovered trip.
Student Leadership Training: Retreats, Shabbatons, and advocacy workshops to empower student leaders.

Community Care & Safety

Collaboration with BU Police and Behavioral Medicine to ensure physical and emotional safety.
Pastoral care and one-on-one support from Rabbis and Jewish educators.
Engagement with BU administration to promote institutional accountability and public support for Jewish students.

Partnerships

Working alongside organizations like CJP, Hillel International, Stand With Us, and the Maccabee Task Force to strengthen efforts against antisemitism.

Click here to see photos, videos, and speeches from our events over the past 2 years since 10/7/23.

Photos from on Campus Vigils, Rallies, Fundraisers, Hostage Awareness, and Advocacy Events from 2024-25

Photos from BU students at Israel rally in DC on 11/14/23