Neferti Tadiar, a professor of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Barnard College, has been a prominent figure in justifying terrorism and advancing antisemitic activism. Tadiar played a visible role in the pro-Hamas encampment at Columbia University in April 2024, holding a sign that read “HANDS OFF OUR STUDENTS” while advocating for divestment from companies associated with Israel. Her actions during the encampment have been widely criticized for endorsing violence and spreading hatred toward Jewish communities.

Neferti Tadiar’s History of Extremism

Tadiar also signed an October 30, 2023, faculty letter defending Hamas’s October 7, 2023, terror attacks. The letter described the atrocities—which included mass murder, kidnappings, and other war crimes—as a “military response” and part of an ongoing “resistance.” This justification of terrorism under the guise of academic discourse has been condemned as a dangerous normalization of extremist violence. Her involvement in anti-Israel organizations, including the advisory board of the US Campaign for the Academic and Cultural Boycott of Israel (USACBI), further underscores her commitment to advancing divisive and inflammatory narratives.

Emboldening Extremist Ideologies

Beyond her participation in the encampment and faculty letter, Tadiar has been actively involved in several movements with anti-Jewish initiatives. Her advocacy perpetuates harmful stereotypes and emboldens extremist ideologies, raising concerns about the role of academic leaders in fostering safe and inclusive campus environments.

Highlighting Her Activity:

• Defense of Terrorism: Signed a faculty letter justifying Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attacks as a “military response” and part of a “right to resist.”
• Encampment Participation: Played a visible role in the pro-Hamas encampment at Columbia University, which featured antisemitic slogans and violent rhetoric.
• Promotion of Antisemitic Activism: Actively involved in BDS and other campaigns targeting Jewish communities under the pretense of social justice.
• Affiliation with Extremist Groups: Serves on the advisory board of USACBI, a leading organization in the academic boycott of Israel.