Independent Review Urges Overhaul of Policies at City University of New York to Combat Antisemitism and Discrimination A recent independent review commissioned by Governor Kathy Hochul has revealed the need for significant policy changes at the City University of New York (CUNY) to address the levels of antisemitism and discrimination present on its campuses. The review, conducted by former chief judge of New York Jonathan Lippman, highlighted inconsistencies and a lack of oversight in how CUNY's campuses handle complaints of bias and antisemitism among students and staff. While the review acknowledged that a small vocal minority was responsible for antisemitic incidents rather than a widespread problem, it emphasized the importance of creating a more inclusive campus environment. Recommendations from the review included establishing a new CUNY center focused on combating hate, which has already been approved and will be known as the Center for Inclusive Excellence and Belonging. The report also addressed instances where complaints of discrimination were mishandled, such as disruptions during online classes at Hunter College calling for the decolonization of Palestine. In response to these issues, CUNY has agreed to reopen investigations into such complaints and provide additional training for employees conducting these investigations. Judge Lippman's report underscored the necessity for CUNY to recruit individuals who promote inclusive dialogue and encouraged faculty members to foster peaceful solutions to disagreements rather than exacerbate conflicts. The report's critical tone reflects shifts in federal guidance and a growing recognition that criticisms of movements like Zionism may be viewed as discriminatory. While some, like Yehudit Meira Biton, welcomed the report's recommendations as a step towards addressing discrimination, others, such as Parima Kadikar, a student at CUNY School of Law, expressed concerns about potential restrictions on student activism and the right to advocate for causes like Palestinian liberation. The review's findings and recommendations come amidst a broader examination of antisemitism on university campuses, following campus protests and federal investigations into how institutions handle complaints of bias and discrimination. CUNY has pledged to implement all of the recommendations outlined in the report to create a more inclusive and respectful campus environment for its diverse student body.