Protests at Columbia University have attracted national headlines, prompted congressional hearings, and led to the arrest of over 100 students. This week, Robert K. Kraft, a prominent Columbia graduate and owner of the New England Patriots, took a stand amidst the ongoing turmoil.
Robert K. Kraft Takes a Stand Against Hate Speech
Mr. Kraft, who graduated from Columbia in 1963 and has been a generous donor to the university, announced that he would cease financial support until the institution addressed the hate speech directed at students and staff. His decision stemmed from concerns about the university’s ability to safeguard its community.
Mr. Kraft emphasized: “I am no longer confident that Columbia can protect its students and staff, and I am not comfortable supporting the university until corrective action is taken.”
Recent protests on the Upper Manhattan campus have escalated tensions, resulting in student arrests and instances of harassment towards Jewish students. Mr. Kraft’s public stance against antisemitism aligns with his past efforts to combat hate speech.
In 2019, Mr. Kraft took action: “Alarmed by rising attacks on Jews and synagogues nationwide, he established the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, a nonprofit organization dedicated to countering the surge in violent rhetoric on social media.”
The foundation has launched a $25 million television campaign, including ads aired during prestigious events like the Academy Awards and the Super Bowl, in an effort to raise awareness and combat antisemitism.
