“We are resolute in our efforts to confront antisemitism,” a Harvard spokesperson said. “Today’s settlement reflects our dedication to maintaining a welcoming, safe campus environment where every student feels a sense of belonging.”
Marc Kasowitz of Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP, representing Students Against Antisemitism, praised the settlement as “specific, meaningful actions to combat antisemitism, hate, and bias on college campuses.”
Kenneth L. Marcus, founder and chair of the Brandeis Center, called the settlement “an important step” toward ensuring that Jewish students can thrive in an environment free from discrimination and harassment.
Ongoing Legal Claims
The settlement does not include claims from the original lead plaintiff, Alexander Kestenbaum, a former Harvard Divinity School student, who will continue to pursue his lawsuit independently.
Kestenbaum alleged that Harvard failed to discipline students and faculty who targeted Jewish students during protests over Israel’s response to the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attacks.
Background and Legal Precedent
The lawsuits gained traction after a federal district judge ruled in 2023 that the plaintiffs plausibly alleged Harvard had failed its Jewish students, describing the university’s public declarations against antisemitism as “hollow.” Judge Richard Stearns allowed the claims to proceed, citing evidence that Harvard did not take meaningful action against harassment.
Representation
- Plaintiffs: Students Against Antisemitism are represented by Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP and Donnelly Conroy & Gelhaar LLP.
The Louis D. Brandeis Center and Jewish Americans for Fairness in Education are represented by attorneys from the Brandeis Center and Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP. - Alexander Kestenbaum: Represented by Libby Hoopes Brooks & Mulvey PC and Holtzman Vogel PLLC.
- Harvard: Represented by WilmerHale and King & Spalding LLP.
The settlement reflects a growing recognition of antisemitism concerns in higher education and could serve as a model for other universities.
