In response to the alarming rise of antisemitic incidents on college campuses, more than two dozen leading US law firms have sent a letter to over 100 law school deans urging them to take a firm and unequivocal stance against antisemitic harassment. The letter, signed by prominent firms such as Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP, Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP, and Wachtell Lipton Rosen and Katz LLP, comes after several law students faced consequences for comments made about a recent attack by Hamas.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a sharp increase in antisemitic incidents across the United States, with many campuses becoming bitterly divided. Notable universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and the University of Pennsylvania have experienced antisemitic incidents, prompting the presidents of these institutions to establish task forces specifically dedicated to addressing this issue.

One particularly troubling incident occurred at Cornell University, where a junior engineering student was charged with making online death threats against Jewish students. Similarly, a swastika was found drawn in Columbia University's International Affairs building, and videos circulated of apparent harassment of a Jewish student at Harvard during an anti-Israel protest.

The letter from the law firms emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards antisemitic activities and called upon law school deans to create safe environments for all students, promoting respect and inclusivity. Moreover, the firms highlighted their commitment to not tolerating acts of harassment or threats of violence from outside groups, which have also been occurring on many campuses.

The initiative was spearheaded by Richard W. Shenker, senior chair of Sullivan & Cromwell, who was contacted by Jewish law students from various prestigious institutions. Shenker shared the draft of the letter with other firms, each of which sent copies to the law schools they collaborate with. When asked whether the firms would reconsider recruiting from schools with concerning behavior, Shenker stated that people can draw their own conclusions, making it clear that the letter speaks for itself.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents, including assaults, harassment, and vandalism, have skyrocketed by 400% since October 7th, with 54 incidents reported on campuses. Furthermore, the group recorded 110 anti-Israel rallies on campuses during this period, with 27 rallies expressing support for terrorism.

The law firms' letter also emphasized the importance of law schools in preparing students to be part of workplace communities with zero tolerance for discrimination and harassment. The firms urged the deans to ensure that their students are equipped with the necessary values to contribute positively to their future careers.

Leaders in the legal industry have praised the coordinated action taken by the firms. Virginia Tent, chair of the management committee at Sidley Austin LLP, expressed gratitude that the industry stood unified in addressing the issue and emphasized the need to speak up against evil and stand for what is right.

In response to the surge in antisemitism on campuses, the Department of Education announced measures to combat this alarming trend. One measure includes expediting the update of the intake process for complaints under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, explicitly stating that certain forms of discrimination against Jews are against the law.

Harvard Law School declined to comment on the matter, and Yale Law School did not respond to requests for comment.

This article was compiled with assistance from Katie Roof, Amanda Gordon, and Pierre Paulden, with contributions from Bloomberg News.