The alarming rise of antisemitism on college campuses has become a pressing issue that demands attention. The October 7 attacks on Israel by Hamas and the subsequent response in Gaza have only exacerbated this problem, leading to a surge in anti-Jewish sentiment. However, in the middle of this troubling landscape, Regent University aims to make an impact with the formation of the Institute for Israel Studies.
The brainchild of Dr. A. J. Nolte, Chair of the Institute and Assistant Professor of Government at Regent, the Institute for Israel Studies seeks to provide a scholarly environment to educate students about the complexities and significance of the modern state of Israel.
One of the key issues highlighted by Dr. Nolte is the increasing influence of foreign funding on campus antisemitism. He points out that countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia have funneled billions of dollars into American universities, significantly impacting Middle East studies and fostering anti-Israel sentiments. For instance, Cornell University has received $1.8 billion, while Georgetown University has been funded with $830 million. This financial influence, coupled with left-wing, Marxist ideologies, has created a toxic environment that fuels antisemitism on campuses.
Dr. Nolte also sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding Zionism. Contrary to the distorted views propagated by some, Zionism simply advocates for the Jewish people's right to autonomy within their own independent state. It emphasizes the significance of the historic and biblical homeland of the Jewish people.
Take a moment and listen to this interview with Dr. A. J. Nolte. You’ll get a better understanding of the Jewish state and be more prepared to engage with those who’ve bought into many of the false narratives.
Click HERE to listen to the podcast on AFR or click below.
