Three academics from the University of Pennsylvania have voiced strong concerns over a demand for a list of Jewish students at the institution. In an article published, the professors argue that such a request sets a dangerous precedent with chilling historical echoes.
Sigal Ben-Porath, professor of ethics and education, Serena Mayeri, professor of constitutional law, and Amanda Shanor, professor of law and freedom of expression, co-authored the piece, highlighting the gravity of the situation. They stated that a legal action has compelled the university to justify its refusal to release the names and contact information of Jewish faculty, staff, and students, purportedly to combat antisemitism.
The professors, all affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, emphasized the potential ramifications of complying with this request. They cautioned that compiling lists of individuals based on their religious affiliation has historically served as a precursor to persecution. As an example, they cited the 1941 census of Jews conducted by the Dutch government, which was subsequently exploited by Nazi occupying forces to deport Jews to extermination camps.
The academics warned that providing the government with addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of individuals based solely on their religious identity opens the door to widespread privacy violations. Furthermore, it grants the executive branch potentially dangerous tools for abuse.
The demand has sparked widespread condemnation within academic and Jewish circles in the United States. Prominent Jewish organizations, alongside academic and civil rights institutions, have united in support of the University’s stance, denouncing the request as alarming and unacceptable.
