Rep. Randy Fine Questions Witnesses on Antisemitism and 'From the River to the Sea'

Antisemitism in Higher Education

• ⚠️ Representative Randy Fine opened the hearing by expressing anger and acknowledging the pervasive nature of antisemitism, comparing the current situation to his own lifelong experiences.
• 🎯 He noted that the focus of Muslim terrorists on spewing propaganda and hate occurred before Israel's ground forces entered Gaza, highlighting the perceived evil and premeditation involved.

Interpretation of 'From the River to the Sea'

• 🗣️ Witness Miss Man identified the slogan "from the river to the sea" as the worst example of antisemitic tropes and conspiracy theories she encountered.
• 💥 When asked for her interpretation, she stated it means a call for the destruction and elimination of Israel and Jews, and a call for her own removal from existence.
• 🗺️ Representative Fine affirmed this interpretation, using the example of Bethlehem, where the Christian population allegedly decreased significantly after being under control of those who espouse this slogan, suggesting a pattern of genocide against non-like-minded individuals.

Harassment and Academic Freedom at Cornell

• 📝 Mr. Rubenstein testified about a petition signed anonymously by Cornell graduate students opposing a union shop agreement, citing fear of targeted personal harassment from union agents.
• 🎓 He argued that Cornell cannot claim to support academic freedom when graduate students fear putting their names on a petition without facing harassment or being forced to support an ideological organization.
• 🏛️ Despite President Kotlikoff's initial statement against mandatory dues, Cornell ultimately reneged on promises to protect students due to the union's threat to strike, indicating a responsiveness to public pressure over principles.

Call for Action and Accountability

• ⚖️ Representative Fine suggested that public pressure or legal action might be necessary to force universities like Cornell to change their course.
• 🤝 He assured the witnesses that he and his colleagues are determined to get to the bottom of the issue and put an end to the scourge of antisemitism.