Peach Tree Times

Members of the University of Georgia (UGA) administration are facing criticism for their silence on the recent deadly Hamas attacks in Israel and the lack of support offered to the University's Jewish community. Despite speaking out swiftly and on multiple occasions about the murder of George Floyd and racist violence against the black community, the administration has not acknowledged the terrorist campaign by Hamas or shown support for the Jewish community, even in the face of anti-Israel demonstrations on campus.

One individual, who has been particularly silent on the matter, is Donald J. Leo, the dean of UGA's College of Engineering. Leo released several statements on behalf of the College of Engineering in 2020 to address violence against the black community. To date, Leo hasn't addressed the terrorist attacks in Israel nor any threats to the Jewish community in the aftermath.

The silence of UGA's administration is in stark contrast to their response to other tragedies and acts of violence. In June 2020, the Dean's Office in the Mary Frances Early College of Education sent an extensive and detailed message in its e-newsletter in response to the murder of George Floyd and the violence against black people in the country. The message included statements from various groups within the College, showing support and solidarity.

UGA College of Engineering Dean Donald J. Leo

Similarly, in May 2022, the Dean's Office in the College of Education sent a lengthy message in response to a mass shooting in Buffalo, New York, that left ten black people dead. The message reaffirmed the College's commitment to antiracism and provided resources for black students and allies to process their grief and share their thoughts.

However, when it comes to the attacks in Israel, UGA's administration has remained silent. The university's official social media account has not posted anything referencing the attacks or the ongoing threats to the worldwide Jewish community.

The lack of support from UGA's administration is concerning, especially considering the severity of the situation. According to CNN, the death toll from Hamas' attack on Israel has risen to over 1,400 people, including at least 30 Americans. The Israeli Defense Force has reported discovering the aftermath of horrific violence, including beheaded infants and burned and mutilated bodies.

UGA's silence is particularly noticeable in light of a protest organized by the university's chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine. The protest, held on October 12 as part of a national "Day of Resistance," accused Israel of murder and called for support for the "freedom and self-determination of the Palestinian people."

It is important to note that UGA receives significant funding from state appropriations. According to the university's finance department, approximately 30% of UGA's total budget of $2.045 billion for fiscal year 2024 comes from state appropriations.

Despite this, UGA's administration has not publicly addressed the attacks in Israel or shown support for the Jewish community on campus. The silence has left many questioning the university's commitment to supporting all of its students and condemning all forms of violence and injustice.