In response to the escalating crisis of antisemitism on college campuses, Alpha Epsilon Pi International (AEPi), the world’s largest Jewish college fraternity, organized a virtual summit and panel discussion. The event, held as part of the Shine A Light campaign, aimed to address the challenges faced by Jewish students on campuses and explore strategies to combat antisemitism while fostering meaningful dialogue and diversity.
The panel discussion, held on December 14, 2023, brought together over 150 college administrators, providing a platform to discuss the unique challenges Jewish students encounter on campuses. Moderated by AEPi CEO Rob Derdiger, the panel featured prominent figures such as Avi Gordon, Executive Director of Alums for Campus Fairness, Lauren Suriel, National Field Director of the Israel on Campus Coalition, and Candice Perilstein, Associate Director of Jewish and Campus Partnerships at the Anti-Defamation League (ADL).
While addressing the participants, Derdiger highlighted AEPi’s ongoing commitment to combating antisemitism on college campuses. Drawing on decades of experience working with campus educators and administrators, AEPi focuses on proactive and positive engagement. Derdiger emphasized the provision of concrete action items for administrators, including adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and integrating Jewish narratives into Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
In the wake of heightened attention to campus antisemitism, AEPi’s virtual summit has already yielded tangible results. Derdiger revealed that confidential discussions with administrators have taken place, discussing potential changes and challenges faced in implementing them. Urging the need for advocacy, Derdiger emphasized the importance of enforcing existing codes of conduct on campuses to ensure the safety and inclusion of Jewish students, aligning their experience with that of other minority student groups.
As campuses grapple with the complexities of antisemitism, AEPi’s initiative serves as a crucial step toward fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for all students. The panel discussions and ongoing engagement with administrators underscore the fraternity’s dedication to proactive solutions in combating antisemitism and promoting diversity on college campuses.