What SUNY’s Bold Stand Can Teach Us About Safeguarding Campuses From Antisemitism

Universities are not just places of learning; they are custodians of culture, values, and intellectual pursuit. The actions they take — or fail to take — directly impact the reputation of their institutions and the well-being of their students. In a time when antisemitism and other forms of hate are on the rise, the State University of New York (SUNY) has demonstrated a proactive approach that other institutions, including the Ivy League, could emulate.

SUNY’s Leadership: A Model for Action

In February 2024, SUNY took a decisive step to protect its name and reputation. By issuing a cease-and-desist letter to SUNY BDS, a group misusing its brand to promote divisive messaging, SUNY reinforced the principle that university trademarks are valuable assets, not tools for hate speech. This action not only safeguarded SUNY’s legal and reputational standing but also sent a powerful message to students: hate has no place under the university’s name.

Why Protecting the Brand Matters

Universities, like companies, depend on their brand equity to maintain trust and prestige. When hate groups co-opt a university’s name, it can harm not only the institution’s reputation but also the lifelong value of a degree from that university. Protecting the brand is not merely about optics; it’s about maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students and ensuring their futures are not tainted by association with intolerance.

A Duty to Students: Ensuring a Safe Environment

Beyond trademarks and reputations, universities have a moral and ethical duty to protect their students. Allowing groups that glorify violence or promote hate to operate freely on campus undermines this duty. Institutions like Harvard, Columbia, and others must recognize that inaction can alienate Jewish students and other marginalized groups, creating a toxic environment that is counterproductive to their educational missions.

Lessons from SUNY: Practical Steps for Change

1. Enforce Trademark Rights: Universities should follow SUNY’s example by monitoring and addressing unauthorized use of their name and logos.
2. Set Clear Guidelines: Establish policies that prevent hate groups from exploiting campus resources and ensure that all student organizations adhere to values of inclusivity and respect.
3. Communicate Institutional Values: Publicly affirm a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, making it clear that the university does not condone bigotry or violence in any form.

A Call to Action: Time for Change

If SUNY can protect its integrity by addressing the misuse of its brand, so can others. Institutions must recognize that failing to act against hate diminishes their credibility and harms the very students they are entrusted to educate. By taking bold steps, universities can ensure their names remain synonymous with excellence and inclusivity.

Conclusion: Building a Safer, Stronger Campus Culture

Universities are more than just academic institutions; they are communities where students should feel safe to learn and grow. SUNY’s actions set a precedent that other universities must follow. By protecting their brands and standing against hate, institutions can create campuses that reflect the best of society — places where all students, regardless of background, can thrive.

Let’s make protecting campus integrity a universal standard.