ADL Report Finds 73% of Jewish Educators in US Unions Self-Censor Over Antisemitism Fears

A new report released by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) on Wednesday reveals that nearly three-quarters of Jewish educators who are members of teachers' unions in the United States feel compelled to censor themselves due to fears of professional harm or damage to their reputation. The findings are based on a survey of 307 union members and focus groups, highlighting a systemic and cultural failure within unions since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

According to the report, about 70 percent of respondents believe that expressing concerns about treatment of Jews within their unions could lead to negative consequences. Nearly half have reduced their participation in union activities because of offensive rhetoric. Additionally, 52 percent witnessed denial or minimization of the atrocities committed on October 7 in the past year, and 49 percent reported hearing the term "Zionist" used as a slur.

The survey participants also criticized union leadership, with 69 percent of those who filed complaints expressing dissatisfaction with the responses they received. More than a quarter noted that their unions promoted programs related to Israel or Jewish issues, and among them, 78 percent felt these programs were biased against Jews.

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the ADL, described the situation as a structural failure that undermines the unions' promises of solidarity and fairness. The ADL is urging union leaders to take immediate action, including explicitly condemning antisemitism, implementing protective measures, and reviewing union content to ensure accuracy and balance.