Federal Task Force Investigates Alleged Antisemitism in Chicago Schools and Campuses
The Justice Department, under the Trump administration, has requested meetings with Chicago and other cities over concerns of inadequate protections for Jewish students.
- The Federal Task Force to Combat Antisemitism, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, has notified mayors of Chicago, New York, Boston, and Los Angeles about alleged failures to address antisemitism on campuses.
- The task force aims to review incidents over the past two years to determine whether federal intervention is necessary under anti-discrimination laws.
- Critics, including Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, have accused the initiative of being politically motivated and selectively targeting Democratic-led cities.
- Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has faced criticism from Jewish leaders and community members for his handling of antisemitism-related issues in schools and public institutions.
- The Anti-Defamation League's recent report highlighted a rise in antisemitic incidents in Illinois, including a significant increase on college campuses between 2022 and 2023.