We are increasingly concerned about the rise in antisemitism.

The recent violent attack on Temple Israel in Michigan is another reminder of our Jewish community under attack.

We are especially concerned about hostility toward Jewish students in educational settings across the United States and here in Florida.

Over the past year, Jewish students on many campuses have reported increased harassment, exclusion, vandalism and intimidation tied to conflict in the Middle East and the war with Iran.

While vigorous debate about international politics is part of a healthy democracy, it must never cross the line into targeting students because they are Jewish or because of perceived identification with Israel.

Florida universities – including the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida, Florida State University and the University of Florida – have all experienced heightened tensions around protests and campus discourse.

Jewish students have reported feeling isolated and unsafe expressing their Jewish identity, wearing Jewish clothing or religious jewelry.

The Suncoast Jewish Alliance believes strongly in both civil rights and free expression.

Criticism of governments – including Israel’s – is protected speech.

But denying the right of Israel to exist as a Jewish state – or harassing, intimidating or excluding Jewish students – is not free speech.  It is antisemitism.

Our community must respond thoughtfully and constructively.

We are taking several initial steps, including:

•Working with the Anti-Defamation League, Secure Community Network and law enforcement which have established systems for students, parents and educators to report antisemitic incidents and hate crimes in local schools and colleges.

•Working with many local faith leaders to engage them in strategies that will combat antisemitism and hate within their congregations.

•Building relationships with university and school district leaders to ensure concerns are addressed promptly.

•Supporting Jewish students, faculty and staff who may feel isolated or targeted.

•Providing educational resources and speakers to help distinguish legitimate political debate from discrimination.

Florida has long been home to a vibrant and diverse Jewish community.

Ensuring that every student – Jewish, Muslim, Christian and others – can learn in an environment free from intimidation should be a shared goal.

We invite educators, community leaders, religious leaders and neighbors to join us and work to maintain respectful dialogue and safe learning environments for all.

Norman Olshansky is president of the Suncoast Jewish Alliance

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