Report Highlights Concerns Over Antisemitism in Teachers Unions

A recent report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) reveals significant concerns about antisemitism among Jewish educators affiliated with teachers unions. The ADL surveyed 307 Jewish union members, many of whom reported self-censorship and dissatisfaction with union responses to antisemitism.

Structural Issues in Unions

ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt highlighted that the issue extends beyond individual behavior, calling it a structural and cultural failure. Jewish educators feel unsafe and unprotected, leading to self-censorship and fear of backlash.

Key Survey Findings

The survey found that 70% of respondents believed that addressing concerns about antisemitism could damage their professional reputation. About 73.6% felt the need to censor themselves, and 47.6% reduced union activity participation due to harmful rhetoric targeting Jews, Zionists, or Israel.

One respondent shared distressing experiences, including union events that endorsed anti-Israel propaganda. Incidents of intimidation and public attacks occurred, underlining the hostile environment Jewish educators face.

Unions’ Response to Concerns

Feedback from Jewish educators to union leadership often met with dissatisfaction, with 69% of them unhappy with the response to antisemitism issues. The ADL noted lacking condemnation in union statements regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Union member efforts to amend resolutions perceived as biased against Israel were frequently dismissed with hostile responses.

Efforts to Combat Antisemitism

American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten acknowledged the issue, emphasizing safe environments for educators. The AFT collaborates with the Jewish Council for Public Affairs to provide educational resources and training against antisemitism.

The National Education Association (NEA) similarly stands against antisemitism. The union offers workshops, Holocaust education resources, and ensures Jewish members can engage without discrimination.

Leadership Concerns

Sydney Altfield, CEO of Teach Coalition, stresses the necessity for union leaders to address antisemitism if members feel leadership contributes to the problem. A change in leadership might be essential for genuine safety and inclusivity.

Increasing Antisemitism Incidents

The ADL identified record levels of antisemitism in the United States in 2025, with 6,274 incidents, averaging about 17 daily. These included 203 assaults, 4,003 harassment cases, and 2,068 acts of vandalism, demonstrating a need for concerted action.

The survey encompassed educators from 24 states, predominantly those working in public schools.