New York schools apologize for sharing Gaza protest toolkit

NYC Public Schools apologized for an antisemitic toolkit in a newsletter and promised to take steps to better protect Jewish students.

 Pro-Palestinian supporters march as they protest against City University of New York (CUNY) college allowing the filming of an FBI: Most Wanted episode fictionalising a Gaza Solidarity Encampment in New York City, US, July 22, 2024.  (photo credit: Reuters/Adam Gray)
Pro-Palestinian supporters march as they protest against City University of New York (CUNY) college allowing the filming of an FBI: Most Wanted episode fictionalising a Gaza Solidarity Encampment in New York City, US, July 22, 2024.
(photo credit: Reuters/Adam Gray)

A recent newsletter from NYC Public Schools featured antisemitic content, titled the "Stop Genocide Gaza Toolkit." The institution issued an apology last week, acknowledging that it was hurtful to many members of their Jewish community.

The monthly newsletter is originally sent out to a select group of teachers and parents within the country's largest public school system.

The Gaza toolkit provides guidance on protesting against Israel, supporting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, pressuring pro-Israel elected officials, and donating funds.

The NYC Public Schools and its Chancellor Aviles-Ramos explained: "Today, a troubling oversight was brought to my attention: an offensive political toolkit was hyperlinked in one of our published newsletters."

 STUDENTS MARCH and rally at the Columbia University campus in New York City last month in support of a protest encampment supporting Palestinians, despite a deadline issued by university officials to either disband or face suspension. (credit: CAITLIN OCHS/REUTERS)
STUDENTS MARCH and rally at the Columbia University campus in New York City last month in support of a protest encampment supporting Palestinians, despite a deadline issued by university officials to either disband or face suspension. (credit: CAITLIN OCHS/REUTERS)

Ensuring safety for Jewish students

Ramos added that the inclusion of the toolkit "both violates our policies on political neutrality and uses hateful, antisemitic language hurtful to many in our Jewish community" and that they deeply apologize.

"Once leadership became aware of this link, we immediately ordered its removal and have already begun conducting a thorough investigation as to how this link was added to a New York City Public Schools communication", Ramos said. 

The organization will implement "protocols to ensure stronger vetting of official materials going forward."

Finally, the chancellor thanked those who brought this matter to their attention: "We remain focused on fostering respect, safety, and civil discourse in our schools and ensuring our Jewish students and families feel safe and supported."


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