Antisemitism exists across the country and at Amherst College, and both nationally-occurring and on-campus incidents of antisemitism are an assault on the sense of belonging of Jewish people at Amherst. That’s why it is vital to both understand it and have recourse to action; these pages offer resources for both to the entire Amherst College community.
What is the definition of antisemitism?
The definition of antisemitism has always been complex and evolving. Here are two commonly-accepted definitions that may be useful in understanding antisemitism:
Our Continuing Work
In the spring of 2023, President Elliott and senior staff of ODEI and Student Affairs established an Antisemitism Working Group consisting of students, faculty, and staff to create these resources for our community. Updated May 2023
- “Antisemitism is a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.” 2016 working definition of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance
- “Anti Semitism is discrimination, prejudice, hostility or violence against Jews as Jews (or Jewish institutions as Jewish).” The Jerusalem Declaration on Antisemitism
