Ban Hillel and Suspend ED Lisa Glass from Rutgers

Dear Rutgers University Administration,

We, the concerned students, alumni, parents and community of Rutgers University, write to address a pressing issue that threatens the core values of our beloved campus community. It is with deep concern that we call for the immediate severance of all ties with Hillel and the suspension of Lisa Glass, their Executive director due to her and Rutgers Hillel's alarming rhetoric and conduct.

Recent events and statements attributed to Lisa Glass have caused significant distress among students and have undermined the principles of inclusion, respect, and interfaith cooperation that Rutgers University holds dear. The evidence presented in the article titled "What's Going On at Rutgers?" from the Jewish Standard, dated February 14, 2024, serves as a clear demonstration of the toxic environment perpetuated by Hillel under the leadership of Lisa Glass.

One excerpt from the article highlights Glass's divisive tactics: "There's an Amalek in every generation". Coming from a director, this statement in and of itself has a very scary rhetoric, calling for and justifying death to a certain people. Another concern is where are very own Rutgers students pictures are being put online (in the article for instance) at the risk of putting them into danger and being targeted. There are many other very disturbing statements that were spewed by Glass. This type of rhetoric not only fosters animosity, but also erodes the fabric of our diverse community. Such behavior is antithetical to the values of mutual understanding and respect that Rutgers University strives to uphold.

Furthermore, while we acknowledge the protection of free speech under the First Amendment, it is essential to recognize that such protections do not absolve individuals or organizations from accountability for promoting bigotry, spreading blatant lies, and inciting extreme hate.

By maintaining ties with Hillel and Lisa Glass in its current state, Rutgers University risks condoning and perpetuating an environment of intolerance, division and violence. We are all (RU students, parents, alumni and community) committed to fostering a campus culture characterized by empathy, inclusivity, and cooperation, we cannot stand idly by while harmful rhetoric goes unchecked.

Therefore, we urge the Rutgers University Administration to take immediate action to sever all connections with Rutgers Hillel and demand the immediate suspension of Lisa Glass. It is imperative that our institution reaffirms its dedication to fostering a welcoming and respectful environment for all members of our community.

In solidarity.