Brandeis investigates vandalism of Hillel artwork

Brandeis University officials are investigating recent incidents of vandalism targeting an art installation by Brandeis Hillel.

Starting on Monday, April 29, Hillel hosted a number of events related to Israel Week, which this year began immediately after the tragic shooting at a synagogue in California. In light of the shooting, Hillel worked with Public Safety to increase security at the Jewish Berlin Chapel during daily services, at the Hillel lounge and offices, and throughout the week at large public events. On April 29 Chabad also held a gathering for students to be together after the California shooting. Faculty and university and Hillel staff attended and offered words of comfort.  We are committed to providing a safe environment for all our students, and we realize many of our Jewish students may feel particularly vulnerable during times of tragic anti-Semitic incidents around the country.

As part of Israel Week, Hillel sought and received approvals to put up a temporary public art installation. Unfortunately, the artwork was vandalized, and as is consistent with university policy, the graffiti was removed and the installation was repainted by students. Subsequently, an unauthorized sign was posted on the installation, and the sign was removed. We at Brandeis are committed to freedom of expression, but we will not tolerate vandalism on our campus.

We also know that many campuses in the U.S. are struggling over dialog about Israel. Brandeis is proud of how our Hillel students processed this incident, and we hope they can serve as an example of constructive dialog around difficult issues.

Sincerely,

Dr. Karen Muncaster, Interim Senior Vice President for Student Affairs

Rabbi Seth Winberg, Executive Director, Hillel and Senior Jewish Chaplain,
Brandeis

Categories: General

Return to the BrandeisNOW homepage