Fairleigh Dickinson University Sued by Jewish Chaplain Over Allegations of Antisemitism
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Teaneck NJ, a lawsuit filed against Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) alleges that the institution allowed “rampant antisemitism” to spiral out of control in the wake of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks and Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The lawsuit was brought by Ira Jaskoll, an adjunct professor and volunteer Jewish chaplain who claims he was discriminated against and retaliated against for speaking out.
The university, through a statement from its communications director, has strongly denied the accusations, saying the facts will show that FDU provides a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty, and staff.
The Heart of the Controversy: A Campus “Teach-In”
According to the lawsuit, the conflict began after FDU approved a student-led event called “Palestine: A Teach-In.” The lawsuit claims that the event’s promotional flyer, which was stamped with “Approved by Student Life,” showed Israel covered in a Palestinian flag—an image the suit describes as an “antisemitic dogwhistle” calling for the Jewish state’s destruction.
Jaskoll’s lawsuit further alleges that the event’s speaker, from the Palestinian American Community Center of New Jersey, repeatedly and baselessly accused Israel of genocide and apartheid. Jaskoll publicly and internally objected to the event, raising concerns that it discriminated against Jewish identity and created a potential safety problem.
Alleged Retaliation and “Discriminatory” Actions
The lawsuit claims that during the event, Jaskoll was asked to leave after he voiced his objections. A few days later, he met with university officials and was subsequently put on “pause” as the Jewish chaplain. Jaskoll alleges that an FDU official suggested his identity as an observing Jew caused “discomfort on campus” and that his suspension would be permanent unless he apologized for his opposition to the event.
Jaskoll’s lawsuit accuses the university of violating his free speech rights, discriminating against his protected identity, and retaliating against him for his comments. He is seeking damages, legal fees, and reinstatement as the volunteer Jewish chaplain.
Fairleigh Dickinson University has said it will defend itself against the lawsuit, stating that it “will not tolerate illegal discrimination against our Jewish community or others” and remains committed to providing a forum for diverse viewpoints to be expressed in a civil manner.
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