UC Davis Faculty Highlight Nexus Guide to Understanding Antisemitism on Campus

As incidents of antisemitism continue to make headlines across the country, UC Davis faculty in the Jewish Studies Program are encouraging the campus community to engage with a timely and rigorous resource: A Campus Guide to Identifying Antisemitism in a Time of Perplexity, published by the Nexus Project.

The Nexus guide stands out for its dual commitment to combating antisemitism and protecting free expression. Developed by a national network of scholars, legal experts, and policy leaders, it offers universities a structured approach to addressing antisemitism in ways that uphold academic freedom and support pluralism. Rather than relying on abstract definitions, the guide provides concrete, campus-specific case studies and framing questions to aid thoughtful and informed responses. A central feature of the guide is its chart, which helps readers distinguish between legitimate criticism of Israel and language or behavior that may cross into antisemitism—offering a clear, practical framework for campus dialogue.

The guide has been circulating on campus as UC Davis continues its broader efforts to engage deeply with issues of bias and belonging. Campus leaders have been participating in national and regional programming on addressing antisemitism, and ongoing advisory structures—including the Advisory Council on Jewish Life and the Jewish Student Leaders Council—provide regular opportunities for direct input, coordination, and action at the highest levels of UC Davis leadership.

By drawing on tools like the Nexus guide and creating space for meaningful engagement, UC Davis is working to foster an environment that addresses antisemitism and where education, constructive dialogue and community understanding go hand in hand.