The Academic Engagement Network has funded a pilot project to educate students and faculty at historically Black colleges and universities about the shared history between the Black and Jewish communities and prepare them to stand up to present-day antisemitism.
The project, Reigniting the Historic Alliance: Preparing Historically Black Colleges and Universities to Confront Antisemitism, will be co-led by Devin Randolph, assistant professor and founding director of the Institute for Social and Environmental Justice, Diversity, and Inclusion at historically Black Voorhees University in Denmark, South Carolina, and Meir Muller, professor at the University of South Carolina.
In the initial launch, two HBCUs in South Carolina will participate in the program, followed by an additional five to seven South Carolina HBCUs within the project’s second and third year. The initiative consists of educational and professional development seminars, as well as an ambassador program for select students to receive additional training. Additionally, each participating HBCU will establish an incident response team to combat antisemitism on campus quickly and effectively.
“At the heart of this approach is the emphasis on creating inclusive and diverse spaces,” said Dr. Randolph. “I see this endeavor as something truly invaluable, drawing from a legacy of resilience and aspirations for a future marked by understanding and progress.”
