Cornell University has announced the cancellation of classes on Friday following the arrest of a junior student, Patrick Dai, who has been charged with making online antisemitic threats against Jewish people on campus. The university has designated Friday as a "community day" in recognition of the stress that the campus community has experienced in recent weeks. The decision to close the campus came after Dai's arrest on Tuesday for posting antisemitic remarks on a Greek life message board. According to a criminal complaint, Dai wrote disturbing comments threatening to kill, rape, and commit acts of violence against Jewish individuals. He specifically targeted a campus dining hall that serves kosher food, which is located next to the Cornell Center for Jewish Living. The posts were made under various usernames such as "kill jews," "hamas soldier," and "sieg heil."

In response to Dai's actions, Vice President for University Relations Joel Malina issued a press release condemning the antisemitic threats and expressing gratitude to law enforcement for swiftly apprehending the suspect. Malina emphasized that Cornell University supports the full prosecution of these horrific threats. The engineering student, who could face up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, remains in custody.

The cancellation of classes at Cornell University reflects the increasing concern about antisemitic incidents on college campuses across the United States. The university's decision to close and provide a day for reflection and self-care aims to address the stress experienced by students and staff. The recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has heightened tensions, leading to discriminatory incidents and threats against both Jewish and Muslim communities in the US.

Cornell President Martha E. Pollack issued a statement acknowledging the impact of these threats on the campus community. While she stated that the crime alert received by the university was unsubstantiated, it has contributed to the overall stress felt by students and staff. Pollack assured the community that Cornell Police would continue to maintain a heightened presence on campus.

The cancellation of classes also prompted discussions among students and their families about safety on campus. Jewish students expressed fear and outrage at the threats made by Dai, emphasizing that such vile and unacceptable behavior should not be present on a college campus. Some students even questioned whether they should continue attending Cornell University.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul addressed the situation, stating her commitment to ensuring that the alleged antisemitic student faces appropriate consequences. She mentioned the possibility of state charges in addition to the federal charges Dai already faces.

This event at Cornell University is part of a larger trend of increasing antisemitic incidents across the country. The Anti-Defamation League reported a nearly 400% increase in incidents of antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and assault based on preliminary data. Similarly, the Council on American-Islamic Relations recorded nearly 800 complaints and reported bias incidents against Muslims nationwide since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

In light of these disturbing trends, it becomes essential for universities and law enforcement to address these acts of hatred and intolerance. The focus on campus safety and community support at Cornell University reflects the growing need to combat antisemitism and other forms of discrimination on college campuses across the United States.