Concord High School Community Demands Action Against Ongoing Antisemitism

A powerful call for action against antisemitism resonated during the Concord Carlisle Joint School Committee and Concord Select Board meeting on July 22, 2025. Community members voiced deep concerns over the persistent and troubling incidents of hate within the school environment, urging immediate and effective measures to combat this issue.

One speaker, an attorney with a background in representing children with disabilities, expressed heartbreak over the resurgence of antisemitism, drawing parallels to their own experiences growing up in the Midwest. They emphasized the need for the district and town leadership to demonstrate a genuine commitment to lasting change, stating, “These cannot be changes that we talked about today and people feel like, okay. Maybe that will work.” The speaker called for transparency and accountability, warning that without these measures, the community would find itself facing the same issues again.

Another poignant testimony came from a rising senior at Concord-Carlisle High School, who criticized the school’s previous responses to antisemitic incidents, including vandalism and bullying. They highlighted a lack of acknowledgment regarding the severity of the problem, stating, “There was no mention of widespread and persistent bullying.” The student argued that the school’s approach had downplayed the issue, leading to a failure in addressing the root causes of antisemitism among students.

The student further pointed out that the administration has the necessary tools to handle these situations but has not utilized them effectively. They called for a shift from mere discussions to concrete actions, insisting that the perpetrators of antisemitic acts must face appropriate disciplinary measures. “The time for half measures and training is over,” they declared, advocating for a collaborative committee involving students, faculty, and community members to develop a comprehensive plan to tackle antisemitism.

The meeting underscored a growing urgency within the community to confront and eradicate antisemitism in schools, with participants demanding a commitment to meaningful change and a proactive stance against hate. As discussions continue, the community awaits the district's response and the implementation of strategies to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for all students.