September 29, 2024

Dear Friends,

This past school year was deeply troubling for many in the Jewish community at the University of Washington. Jewish students, faculty, and staff experienced unchecked antisemitism. At times, they faced harassment, intimidation, and a hostile environment. The recent disruption of the September 12 Board of Regents meeting further highlighted the ongoing failure to protect our community. While these events were painful, I am writing to share an update. 

The University has issued a letter to the Jewish community indicating the University’s intent to depart from last year’s inaction. This clear communication from the University leadership – President Ana Mari Cauce and Chair of the Board of Regents Blaine Tamaki – is appreciated. 

Key commitments from the university include:

• The university’s ban on camping overnight, including erecting a tent or other shelter
• Firm language that the obstruction and disruption of university operations is unlawful
• Information about sanctions for students who engage in prohibited conduct, including suspension or expulsion
• A requirement for public events to go through a coordinated approval process, in accordance with time, place, and manner guidelines
• A commitment to release the long overdue Antisemitism Task Force’s findings by October 15, a report we had called to be released in advance of the school year.

This marks a shift in tone from where we stood just a few months ago. However, this is not the time for complacency by the university. Last year, similar rules were already in place, yet they failed to protect our community. We expect transparency, accountability, and action—and we will stay vigilant until these expectations are met. The Federation will continue to monitor the situation closely and work together with our campus partners Hillel and Chabad.

The University’s response was the result of months of work by members of the Jewish community, including both behind-the-scenes efforts and public communal action. Our Jewish community members were critical in this process, coming together to advocate for the safety and well-being of the community on campus. Thousands from our community responded to action alerts calling on university leaders to take meaningful action, and over 40 articles were published in local, national, and international outlets, amplifying our community’s call for action.  This illustrates the power of a strong community and the critical role the Federation plays in bringing people together. Our work isn’t over, nor is the work of the university.

Thank you for your unwavering support. As we approach Rosh Hashanah, the Federation is working to make this new year better for our community in every way. Together, this change is possible. I am confident the coming year will be one of renewed strength and unity for our community.

L’shalom,

Solly Kane
President & CEO
Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle