ADL Report Highlights Antisemitism in Teachers Unions

Jewish educators are encountering significant antisemitism within teachers unions. This information comes from a recent report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) that surveyed 307 Jewish union members. Many respondents indicated they felt compelled to censor themselves and expressed disappointment with the unions’ handling of antisemitism.

The issues we identified are not caused by a few individuals. They are due to structural and cultural failings, said ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt. He emphasized that Jewish educators should feel safe and supported in union settings, but instead are censoring themselves due to fear of backlash. Greenblatt labeled these findings as indicative of a dangerous trend of institutionalized antisemitism.

“Jewish educators deserve to feel safe and protected in their union spaces. And instead of that, they are self-censoring and fearing backlash for raising concerns.” – Jonathan Greenblatt

Sydney Altfield, CEO of Teach Coalition, expressed concern that unions, intended to protect all educators, are failing in this role. Unions should be inclusive homes for every member, but they are currently falling short, she said.

A critical issue highlighted in the report is the high incidence of self-censorship among Jewish educators. According to the ADL, 70% of participants somewhat or strongly agreed that discussing Jewish concerns in union settings might lead to professional repercussions. Additionally, 73.6% admitted to self-censoring, and 47.6% described their reduced involvement in union activities due to adverse rhetoric targeting Jews, Zionism, or Israel.

Incidents included a respondent’s account of union leadership actively opposing Jewish interests and hosting events that disseminated anti-Israel materials. Witnesses also reported their loved ones were intimidated at union events, and union leadership attacked people online.

Moreover, over 70% of respondents felt that union statements regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict failed to denounce the organization or its actions. Approximately 52% saw instances of denying or minimizing the atrocities of October 7, while nearly 49% heard Zionism used derogatorily.

One respondent shared the local union’s decision to pass a resolution attributing blame for the October 7 Hamas attack to Israel. Attempts to amend or contest this resolution were rejected, highlighting resistance within union leadership.

When respondents raised concerns about antisemitism within unions, 69% reported dissatisfaction with union leadership’s response. A priority for many is ensuring that leaders condemn threats and harassment against Jews.

In response, American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten stated that antisemitism is a pervasive issue not limited to unions. She emphasized the need for proactive engagement that reconciles Jewish safety with strong unions.

Weingarten highlighted AFT’s partnership with the Jewish Council for Public Affairs to provide training and resources against antisemitism. We aim to ensure all educators and students feel safe and respected, she said.

The National Education Association (NEA) also affirmed its stance against antisemitism and highlighted efforts like antisemitism workshops and Holocaust education.

Altfield stressed that union leaders must address leadership issues if antisemitism is attributed to them. Changes may involve replacing leadership if current leaders do not foster a secure and inclusive environment for Jewish members.

The ADL report comes amid rising antisemitism in the U.S. with over 6,200 incidents recorded in 2025. These incidents included assaults, harassment, and vandalism, reflecting a growing concern across the country.

The survey involved educators from 24 states, with a high representation from states like California, Massachusetts, and New York. Nearly all respondents worked in public schools.

Rachel Wolf reports on media and culture for Fox News Digital.