UN International School in New York Expels Students Over Swastika Yearbook Incident
The United Nations International School (UNIS) in New York has expelled several eighth-grade students who drew swastikas and hate symbols in their yearbooks. The school announced it completed its investigation and took disciplinary actions against those involved. Principal Dan Barner informed parents that fewer than 15 students were implicated, with consequences ranging from counseling and probation to permanent exclusion from the school community. However, some Jewish and Israeli parents expressed skepticism, suggesting the school is downplaying the incident and reluctant to expel children of diplomats, aiming to reduce public pressure rather than enforce strict punishment.
The incident came to light after ynet reported parents discovering antisemitic and homophobic remarks printed in the yearbooks. The school confiscated over 30 yearbooks and launched a full investigation. Due to the severity of the case, the school canceled the eighth-grade year-end party, citing the community's distress. Earlier this year, Nadine Sabbagh, a Jewish teacher with 30 years at the school, filed a lawsuit alleging a hostile environment for Jews and Israelis, including ignored antisemitic complaints and discriminatory accusations against Israeli students. She also revealed a Muslim teacher's antisemitic comments and distribution of Hamas-supporting materials without repercussions.
Months before the yearbook incident, a swastika was found in the boys' locker room, raising community concerns. Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon condemned the hate symbols, emphasizing the need for zero tolerance toward antisemitism in UN-related institutions. Israeli Consul in New York Ophir Akunis called on public officials to act immediately to prevent normalization of such acts, stressing the responsibility of educational leaders. Tuition at the prestigious school is about $50,000 annually. Parents now demand full transparency regarding the identities of those responsible and the penalties imposed to ensure such incidents do not recur.
