NYC Schools Accused of Promoting Antisemitism

A New York City Department of Education newsletter sent to teachers used the term "genocide in Gaza" when describing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This sparked immediate outrage among Jewish educators and activists who see it as another example of antisemitism in the city's public school system.

Controversial Newsletter Content

The 14-page newsletter, featuring logos from the city DOE and the United Federation of Teachers, discussed a student-led protest. It framed the protest, described by some as pro-Hamas and filled with antisemitic tropes, as a positive catalyst for student voices.

<figure data-float=""><div><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="886" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/04/protesters-organized-local-chapters-palestinian-103352745-e1746053528791.jpg?w=1024" alt="Protesters organized by local chapters of the Palestinian Youth Movement and Students for Justice in Palestine hold an effigy of President Donald Trump with bloodied hands outside the White House to denounce US support for the ongoing genocide in Gaza."></a></p></div><figcaption>Image illustrating the context of the controversial newsletter.</figcaption></figure>

Backlash and Response

Many teachers and Jewish activists condemned the newsletter, calling for its immediate removal and an apology. They argued that the language violates regulations against political activity in schools and promotes anti-Israel and anti-Jewish propaganda.

The DOE responded by stating that the offensive language was removed upon discovery and that review protocols are being strengthened. The UFT denied involvement in creating or reviewing the newsletter before its release.

<figure data-float=""><div><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="871" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/04/announced-new-initiative-help-children-103066843.jpg?w=1024" alt="Mayor Eric Adams, along with School Chancellor Melissa Aviles - Ramos, (also pictured) announced a new initiative to help children read, which they said is a big problem these days"></a></p></div><figcaption>Image showing relevant figures involved in the controversy.</figcaption></figure>

This incident follows a similar controversy earlier in the month where a DOE newsletter linked to a "Stop Gaza Genocide Toolkit." This pattern of events led the director of #EndJewHatred to call for accountability from the chancellor and a full investigation.

Ongoing Concerns

The incidents highlight ongoing concerns about antisemitism and pro-Palestinian activism in NYC schools, with some teachers reporting feeling unsafe due to these protests.

<figure data-float=""><div><p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="885" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/04/2025-gaza-city-gaza-strip-98408523.jpg?w=1024" alt="Palestinians walk through rubble during severe weather conditions in the Al-Rimal neighborhood in central Gaza City on February 12, 2025 amid the current ceasefire agreement in the war between Israel and Hamas"></a></p></div><figcaption>Image providing visual context to the situation in Gaza.</figcaption></figure>

The situation underscores a debate about neutrality and political expression within the public education system.