ADL Report Highlights Antisemitism in Teachers Unions
Jewish educators are encountering widespread antisemitism within teachers unions, according to a report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The survey involved 307 Jewish union members, with many expressing dissatisfaction over unions’ handling of antisemitism concerns. ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt stated that the findings indicate a structural and cultural failure. Jewish educators feel unsafe in union spaces, leading to self-censorship and fear of backlash when discussing antisemitism.
Key Findings and Responses
The report highlights a troubling trend of institutionalized antisemitism. Sydney Altfield, CEO of Teach Coalition, expressed concerns over unions’ failure to represent and protect all educators. A significant portion of Jewish educators reported self-censorship due to fear of professional repercussions. According to the ADL, 70% agreed that discussing antisemitism in unions could damage their reputations or careers. Furthermore, 73.6% felt the need to censor themselves, while 47.6% reduced their participation in union activities due to harmful rhetoric or behavior targeting Jews and Israel.
Respondents noted union leadership actively worked against Jewish interests by promoting biased anti-Israel curricula. More than 70% of surveyed educators agreed that union statements failed to condemn Hamas following the Oct. 7 massacre in Israel. Such rhetoric persisted post-massacre, with nearly 49% hearing ‘Zionism’ used pejoratively.
Union Leadership and Antisemitism
A notable 69% of respondents unsatisfied with union leadership actions requested condemnation of threats against Jews. Jewish educators remain cautious, avoiding identifying clothing or jewelry, and limiting discussions about antisemitism.
Randi Weingarten, American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President, acknowledged antisemitism issues within unions, and emphasized the need for constructive engagement to ensure safety and unity. The AFT collaborates with the Jewish Council for Public Affairs to provide resources and training against antisemitism.
Efforts to Combat Antisemitism
National Education Association (NEA) spokesperson confirmed the union’s stance against antisemitism, advocating for discrimination-free participation for Jewish members. The NEA’s Jewish Affairs Caucus addresses concerns, alongside collaboration with the Jewish Council for Public Affairs for workshops and resources.
Altfield stressed the necessity for union leaders to address antisemitism from the top-down. She suggested leadership changes if the existing leadership fails to support a secure environment for Jews.
Antisemitism on the Rise
The ADL notes a rise in antisemitism in the U.S., recording 6,274 incidents in 2025, averaging about 17 per day. These include 203 assaults, 4,003 harassment cases, and 2,068 vandalism acts, with 32 assaults involving deadly weapons.
The survey covered educators in 24 states, mainly from California, Massachusetts, and New York, with 99% working in public schools.