
Gottheimer issues statement on Rutgers faculty union pro-BDS resolution
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) Thursday issued a statement regarding the recent vote by Rutgers University’s faculty union to support an antisemitic BDS resolution.
“I strongly condemn the Rutgers AAUP-AFT and Adjunct Faculty Union vote to approve an antisemitic BDS resolution, which calls for the state university to divest from financial investments and academic affiliations with Israel, America’s key democratic ally,” said Gottheimer.
While expressing his support for free speech and free expression, the Congressman denounced hatred and antisemitism. “The hate-motivated, antisemitic BDS movement seeks the eradication of Israel, which is unacceptable and has no place on college campuses or in our country—especially at Rutgers,” he continued. “Under New Jersey state law, it is illegal for state pension and annuity funds to invest in companies that boycott Israel or Israeli businesses.”
Gottheimer also highlighted ongoing concerns about antisemitism at Rutgers, referencing the 2017 incident involving Professor Michael Chikindas, who was exposed for sharing antisemitic content online. Despite the university’s denouncement at the time, Gottheimer argued that allowing such a professor to remain part of the faculty sends a troubling message.
“Administrators at colleges and universities across the country have a legal obligation to protect Jewish students against antisemitism, harassment, and intimidation,” Gottheimer said. “I urge Rutgers University to immediately and publicly reject this harmful resolution and reaffirm its commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students and faculty.”