Pontiac Times

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State Rep. Donni Steele has urged the University of Michigan to take action to address the ongoing anti-Israel protests on campus before things escalate further. Steele emphasized the importance of providing a safe environment for all students, including Jewish students, to pursue their education without facing harassment.

According to Steele, the protests at the University of Michigan, similar to those at Columbia University, have taken a concerning turn with protestors spreading antisemitic hate and calling for the annihilation of Israel. The State Rep. raised alarm about the tactics employed by the protestors, stating, "There is nothing peaceful about protestors seizing control of a heavily trafficked community space to spew antisemitic hate at passing students and faculty."

Steele highlighted the need for university leadership to resist giving in to the demands of a minority group of radicalized students, stressing that the safety and well-being of all students should be a top priority. The State Rep. condemned the actions of the protestors, noting, “It seems these protestors will go to any length and use any sensationalized rhetoric to help wipe Israel off the map.”

The call for action comes as protestors at the University of Michigan have set up tents on campus, demanding the university to stop supporting Israel financially and to end what they perceive as injustices in Palestine. Steele warned against allowing the situation to escalate further, urging proactive measures to prevent violence on campus.

Steele also referenced the response at Columbia University, where access cards for Jewish faculty were deactivated, and students were advised to stay home to avoid confrontations with protestors. The State Rep. stressed the importance of not waiting for violent incidents to occur before taking necessary steps to address the situation.

In conclusion, Rep. Donni Steele's message to the University of Michigan is clear: it is imperative to stop the antisemitic harassment on campus and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students to learn and thrive.