NYU Freshman Targeted with Antisemitic Graffiti

An 18-year-old Jewish student at NYU discovered antisemitic graffiti on his dorm room door in Weinstein Hall on September 9th. The graffiti included the phrases "Free Palestine" and "Jew," along with an image of a pig. The student, who wished to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation, reported the incident to End Jew Hatred campus coordinator Daisy Kahn.

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NYU's Response and Concerns

NYU President responded swiftly, condemning the act and emphasizing the university's zero-tolerance policy towards antisemitism and hate. The university has installed security cameras in the dorm, but Kahn argues that more needs to be done to prevent such incidents.

Rise in Anti-Jewish Hate Crimes

This incident highlights a disturbing trend. NYPD data reveals a significant increase in anti-Jewish hate crimes in NYC. In 2024, 54% of all hate crimes targeted Jews; this number rose to 62% in the first quarter of 2025. Rabbi Mark Wildes points out the concerning connection between the seemingly innocuous phrase "Free Palestine" and the antisemitic slur, suggesting a dangerous conflation of anti-Zionism and antisemitism.

NYPD is investigating the incident as criminal mischief. NYU has cleaned the graffiti and is providing support to the affected student.