Hillel International has partnered with the Secure Community Network (SCN) to launch “Operation SecureOurCampuses” to offer a variety of resources for Jewish groups this academic year.
“As we approach the fall, we know based on intelligence work, open-source reporting and telegraphing of intent by organized protest groups that we will anticipate a challenging environment on campus,” a spokesperson for SCN told JNS, noting a focus on 50 North American universities it described as “high-risk.”
Topping the list of services the program aims to provide are “full-time analysts dedicated to monitoring campus safety/security developments and providing intelligence and information-sharing support.”
SCN developed a new training program for the initiative that would instruct Jewish students on how to respond when confronted by protesters. Other training sessions teach situational awareness and responses to life-threatening events. The group will also provide security assessments for Jewish facilities on campus. SCN says it further aims to enhance coordination across Jewish organizations and consult on developing emergency plans.
“Creating vibrant Jewish life on campus depends on having safe environments for Jewish college students, which is why we are so proud to work alongside SCN in strengthening our security support for campus Hillels worldwide,” said Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International.
“We are committed to ensuring that members of the community feel safe and supported as they pursue their education,” said Michael Masters, SCN national director and CEO.
“Operation SecureOurCampuses, coordinated with key partners across the community and public safety, is a proactive measure to address these threats and work closely with our partners to protect every center of Jewish life on campus,” he stated. “We are committed to ensuring that members of the community feel safe and supported as they pursue their education — they should be able to walk across campuses free from fear, harassment or targeted violence.”
