Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, a senior member of the Education and Workforce Committee, recently questioned Haverford College President Wendy Raymond regarding antisemitism at the college during a committee hearing. The discussion centered on incidents and statements related to antisemitism on campus.
Stefanik asked Raymond if calling for the genocide of Jews is considered protected speech at Haverford. Raymond responded, “No, of course not.” When pressed about disciplinary actions against such calls, Raymond stated that no such calls had been made but assured that appropriate disciplinary measures would be taken if they occurred.
The conversation also touched upon a student group advocating for the dismantling of Israel by “all means necessary.” Stefanik inquired about the meaning of this phrase and any subsequent disciplinary actions. Raymond described the terminology as “repugnant” but did not confirm specific disciplinary actions.
Stefanik further questioned Raymond about a professor’s post following the October 7 Hamas attacks, which some Jewish students found offensive. While disavowing such posts as harmful, Raymond refrained from discussing individual cases or confirming specific investigations or actions taken against the professor.
The hearing also addressed comments attributed to an administrator suggesting Jewish prospective students should be brave rather than expect safety at Haverford. In response to whether these statements were investigated, Raymond expressed disbelief that her colleagues would make such remarks but did not confirm any investigation into the matter.
Throughout the hearing, Stefanik emphasized dissatisfaction with Haverford’s handling of antisemitism issues compared to other institutions represented at the session. She criticized what she perceived as inadequate responses from President Raymond regarding specifics on investigations and disciplinary measures.
