Justice for IDF Soldier: The Fight Against Campus Antisemitism

In the wake of the gruesome October 7 massacre carried out by Hamas, former Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldier Max Long found himself advocating for Israel on the DePaul University campus in Chicago. Unfortunately, his efforts to foster dialogue and understanding turned into a nightmare when he was violently assaulted while holding a sign that read, “Come talk about Israel with an IDF Soldier.” Now, Long is determined to take legal action against the school, aiming to ensure that no other student has to endure such aggression again.

The Assault: A Targeted Attack

Max Long, a reservist with the IDF at the time of the attack, had always been a vocal supporter of Jewish civil rights and aimed to defend Israel’s actions against Hamas’s terror. His commitment to advocating for Israel made him a target for protesters on campus. As tensions escalated, Long found himself facing harassment and threats against his safety.

The situation deteriorated when he and his fellow student Michael Kaminsky were confronted while peacefully advocating on the campus sidewalk. During a calm but contentious discussion with a protester, a masked assailant ambushed Long from behind, knocking him unconscious. Kaminsky, despite sustaining a wrist injury while defending his friend, managed to fend off the attackers before they fled the scene.

Legal Action and Support from The Lawfare Project

Post-assault, Long is not only focusing on his recovery but also on holding DePaul University accountable for what he describes as an abject failure to protect its students. He has enlisted the help of The Lawfare Project, a prominent Jewish civil rights law firm that specializes in cases involving antisemitism and discrimination on college campuses. The firm announced that they would assist Long in defending his civil rights and explore possible legal avenues, including Title VI claims, contract, and tort claims.

Only weeks prior, The Lawfare Project defended another Jewish student at Columbia University, prompting changes in campus policies regarding protests. Given the ongoing threats to Jewish students across U.S. campuses, Long’s case might significantly resonate with broader issues of safety and institutional responsibility.

Community Reaction: A Call to Accountability

Brooke Goldstein, founder and executive director of The Lawfare Project, expressed deep concerns about the increasing hostility faced by Jewish students in educational institutions across the United States. “Colleges and universities are turning into literal battlegrounds where Jewish students are being singled out, discriminated against, and beaten for their identity,” she stated. Goldstein insists that no student, especially one like Long who has served in the IDF, should endure any form of abuse for expressing their identity.

Long, recovered from the immediate shock of the assault, stands resolute in his conviction. He expressed his gratitude for the tremendous support he has received from the Jewish community and The Lawfare Project, vowing to continue his advocacy without apologies. “I am in incredible pain with bruises all over my face, but I will keep fighting for my civil rights and against the hatred that has consumed American campuses,” he asserted.

Campus Climate: A Broader Pattern of Violence

The incident involving Long is not isolated. It marks a disturbing trend of escalating antisemitic sentiments and violence on American college campuses. Protests against Israel, which gained momentum following events at Columbia University last year, have proliferated, often with hostility directed at Jewish students. Long’s assault is a stark reminder of the pervasive climate of fear and intimidation that many students now face.

Authorities Respond: A Legal and Institutional Reckoning

As Chicago police investigate the attack, which has been classified as a hate crime, the search for Long’s assailants continues. While the perpetrators remain at large, The Lawfare Project is committed to ensuring justice for Long and advocating for necessary changes within DePaul University’s policies and practices regarding student safety and free speech.

DePaul University has publicly acknowledged the incident, with spokesperson Russell Dorn stating that the university president, Robert L. Manuel, is “outraged this hate crime occurred.” Dorn confirmed that the university condemned “the antisemitic targeting of these two Jewish students” and that they are working closely with law enforcement to identify the suspects while also extending support and resources to Long and Kaminsky.

Conclusion: A Fight for Civil Rights and Safety

The support expressed by the broader Jewish community, along with legal representation from The Lawfare Project, highlights the increasing demand for accountability in addressing antisemitism on campus. Long’s case is pivotal not only for his personal justice but also as a catalyst for change regarding how universities handle issues of hate, discrimination, and safety for all students, especially those expressing their Jewish identity.

As Long continues his fight for justice and healing, his story serves as a critical reminder of the consequences of unchecked hatred and the importance of standing up for one’s rights in the face of adversity.