‘We’re not in a fight about facts’: Scholars analyze post-Oct. 7 pop-up campus protests

Jewish studies professor Alvin Rosenfeld discusses his new book examining post-October 7 campus protests, describing a movement driven by ideological mobilization rather than factual knowledge. He recounts encountering a student at Indiana University who knew nothing about the Second Intifada.

Jewish studies professor Alvin Rosenfeld, director of Indiana University's Institute for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism, discusses his new edited book 'Toward the Last Encampment: Campus Culture and the Jews Before and After October 7.' The book examines the explosion of anti-Israel activism and antisemitism at universities in the United States and Europe following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Rosenfeld describes walking among the anti-Israel encampments at Indiana University in 2024 and encountering a student who knew nothing about the Second Intifada. He argues the movement is driven by ideological mobilization rather than knowledge, saying 'We're not in a fight about facts.' The book includes firsthand accounts, including Rabbi David Wolpe's experience at Harvard and Israeli scholar Eliyahu Sapir's analysis of Dutch university administrators. Rosenfeld notes that more than 30 Harvard student organizations issued a statement blaming Israel on October 7, and a protest handbook was distributed within 24 hours. He estimates 200-300 students led anti-Israel activity at his university but says a determined group can change campus tone. He criticizes university administrations for initial inaction and has mixed feelings about Trump administration pressure. He also notes a revival of Jewish identity among students.