High Country Times

Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee Chairman Aaron Bean (R-FL) convened a hearing on May 8, 2024, to address the alarming rise of antisemitism in K-12 schools.

In his opening statement, Bean expressed deep concern over the prevalence of antisemitic incidents in American schools. He stated, "The Holocaust ended in 1945. The hate behind it didn't. I'd like to start by saying that I find antisemitism to be repugnant in all its forms, but I find the topic of today's hearing particularly troubling."

He highlighted the disturbing reality that children as young as second grade are expressing Nazi propaganda and questioned who is influencing these young minds against Jewish people.

Bean criticized public school districts for failing to prevent the spread of antisemitism, which has led to Jewish students fearing for their safety. He said, "Three of the witnesses here today represent public school districts that have allowed vile antisemitism to spread unchecked."

Among those called to testify were representatives from New York City Public Schools, Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), and Berkley Unified School District. These districts have reported numerous instances of antisemitic behavior including chants of 'Kill the Jews,' Nazi salutes, and swastikas drawn on walls.

Bean concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of addressing this issue head-on: "This is the moment for all of us to take a stand against hate, against the indoctrination and radicalization of the next generation of our future leaders."