On July 15, UC Berkeley Chancellor Rich Lyons is scheduled to testify before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. The hearing will address antisemitism in higher education. Chancellor Lyons’ opening statement emphasizes Berkeley’s commitment to combating antisemitism and supporting its Jewish community.
“Good morning Chairman Walberg, Ranking Member Scott, and members of the Committee. I’m Rich Lyons and I just completed my first year as Chancellor of UC Berkeley. Thank you for inviting me to discuss Berkeley’s longstanding efforts to combat antisemitism and support our Jewish community.”
Chancellor Lyons expressed that “Berkeley unequivocally condemns antisemitism,” reaffirming the university’s dedication to its Jewish students, colleagues, and community. He acknowledged that more work is needed due to a rise in antisemitism affecting both the university and the nation.
“I am the first to say that we have more work to do. Berkeley, like our nation, has not been immune to the disturbing rise in antisemitism. And, as a public university, we have a solemn obligation to protect our community from discrimination and harassment while also upholding the First Amendment right to free speech.”
Lyons detailed several initiatives at UC Berkeley aimed at addressing this issue: collaboration with advisory committees on Jewish life, partnerships with the Berkeley Center for Jewish Studies, an Antisemitism Education Initiative, new training programs for incoming students, and enhanced security measures.
“After a year as Chancellor, I can confidently say that Berkeley is committed to meeting this challenge… These are just some of our new initiatives — we continue to work with our Jewish community to respond to the ignorance at the heart of this deplorable hatred.”
The chancellor highlighted Berkeley’s historical contributions and mission-driven goals such as promoting safety and respect on campus while advancing research beneficial to society.
“I’m proud of Berkeley’s long history and vital contributions… Our mission requires that we strive for a campus where all our people feel safe and respected… As a public institution, Berkeley has a solemn obligation to protect the quintessential American value of free speech.”
Chancellor Lyons concluded by expressing his willingness to answer questions from committee members.
“I look forward to answering any questions you may have.”
