Hundreds of “Ducat” posters targeting members University of Rochester community were found taped to campus buildings and classrooms, according to the Department of Public Safety.

The university launched an investigation after discovering the targeted posters Jewish collegeand staff, including Hillel leaderswith the words “Wanted: War Crimes Connection” and “Racism. Hate speech. Intimidation”.

Hillel issued a statement clarifying that the posters are not aimed at Jewish students and that there are no known threats against students at this time.

“These posters insinuate a call to violence. Yet these same students are accusing Hillel leaders of falsely labeling anti-Jewish protesters as violent — the irony is overwhelming,” activist group StopAntisemitism said via X. “This poster is overwhelming. anti-Semite bullying should not be tolerated. A full investigation is required and expulsion should be on the table for those involved.”

The Associate Vice President for Public Safety issued a statement regarding the incident.

“University facilities immediately began working to remove the posters and return the spaces to their usual condition,” said Chief Quchee Collins. “This process is painstaking due to the strong adhesive used to stick the posters, which in some cases caused damage to the walls. floors, boards and other surfaces.”

Collins continued: “Posters and displays affixed in this manner are unacceptable and considered vandalism of university property. Any activity, including the posting of these posters, that disrupts our normal operations and classroom instruction will not be tolerated. Furthermore, it appears that the purpose of this vandalism is to intimidate members of our university community, which is an action that goes against Meliora’s values.”

Newsweek they contacted the University of Rochester but have yet to hear back.

Chabad, a campus Jewish organization, said Newsweek although they have increased security in response to threats, they will not be intimidated. Instead, they continue this week with the biggest Shabbat dinner of the year.

“When the world goes dark, we need to add light, and random acts of kindness and goodness are the right response to that,” Rabbi Asher Yaras told Newsweek.

Yaras said that while anti-Semitism is nothing new, what has changed since Oct. 7 is how Jewish students have responded to the hate.

“More heads are adorned with Kippahs,” he said, “More Mezuzahs at campus doors. More jewelry and clothing of Jewish identification are worn. More Jews wear Tefillin on campus. More Jewish students identify and join the community. More Jewish students walk with pride and courage.”

Chabad centers provide religious services, study sessions, social events and support for Jewish students, fostering a welcoming environment for those seeking to connect with their Jewish identity. They often offer Shabbat meals, holiday celebrations, and other activities to engage students in Jewish life on campus.

University of Rochester

The University of Rochester embraces the values ​​captured in its motto, “Meliora,” which means “better and better.” These principles guide the institution’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in all aspects of campus life.

Key principles include equity, a focus on diversity, inclusion and access; leadership, encouraging initiative and shared responsibility for excellence; and integrity, upholding honesty and fairness. The university promotes openness in ideas and expression, respect for differences and the environment, and responsibility in actions and interactions to strengthen the community.

The Department of Public Service is still investigating vandalism incident and asks anyone with information to contact them at (585) 275-3333 or [email protected].

The university is located in Rochester, new york along the Genesee River, about 70 miles east of Buffalo and 85 miles west of Syracuse.

The university enrolled 12,160 students in the 2023–24 academic year, with 6,350 full-time students and 3,759 full-time graduate students. In addition, 414 undergraduates and 1,637 graduate students participated part-time.

About 900 Jewish students followed by the University of Rochester, which comprises about 13 percent of the undergraduate population, according to Hillel International. Hillel at the university serves approximately 500 Jewish undergraduates, along with a significant number of Jewish graduate students, faculty, and staff.

Hillel is a global organization that supports Jewish students on college and university campuses. It offers a wide range of services and programs to help Jewish students connect with their cultural and religious traditions, engage in community activities, and foster a sense of belonging.

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