Two Jewish students were physically assaulted by masked attackers on the campus of DePaul University in Chicago. The incident occurred in front of the Student Center on the Lincoln Park campus around 3:20 p.m. The school’s president, Robert Manuel, described the attack as targeted towards the two students who were visibly showing their support for Israel. The students were punched by the attackers but declined medical treatment. DePaul University condemned the attack, calling it completely unacceptable and a violation of the university’s values.
After the incident, the university offered care and resources to the students. DePaul is working with the Chicago police to determine if the attack can be classified as a hate crime. The school stated that they will do everything possible to hold those responsible for the attack accountable. DePaul emphasized that the campus should be safe and welcoming for all members of its diverse community. The university made it clear that acts of hatred or violence would not be tolerated on campus and encouraged anyone with information on the attack to report it to Public Safety.
DePaul University expressed their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of their university community. The school recognized that Israel is a core part of the Jewish identity for a significant portion of its Jewish community, and stated that every student should feel safe on campus. The university’s guiding principles dictate that DePaul will not stand for any acts of hatred or violence. In light of the incident, DePaul reiterated their dedication to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students on campus.
The university urged anyone with information about the attack or experiencing any threats or violence to report it to Public Safety. DePaul emphasized that the safety and well-being of their university community remain their highest priority. The school’s president concluded by reassuring the community that they will continue to do everything possible to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all members of the university. DePaul’s response to the attack reflects a commitment to addressing incidents of hatred and violence on campus and supporting those affected by such incidents.
DePaul University was one of many schools across the U.S. that saw active pro-Palestinian demonstrations earlier in the year. Chicago police officers cleared an anti-Israel encampment from the university’s quad in May after more than two weeks of protests led to the closure of all green spaces. The incident involving the assault on the two Jewish students at DePaul University highlights the ongoing tensions around issues related to Israel and Palestine on college campuses. The university’s response to the attack underscores the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background or beliefs.
