Harvard's Appointment of Antisemitism Task Force Co-Chair Sparks Controversy

Critics Question Professor Derek Penslar's Views on Israel and Antisemitism Definition

Harvard University has established two task forces to address antisemitism and Islamophobia on campus, following criticism of its handling of antisemitism in the wake of the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.
Professor Derek Penslar, a renowned scholar of modern Jewish and Israeli history, has been appointed co-chair of the antisemitism task force, a decision that has sparked controversy among some prominent figures including former Harvard President Larry Summers and billionaire Harvard alum Bill Ackman.
Critics argue that Penslar's views on Israel and his stance on the definition of antisemitism make him unsuitable for the role. Penslar has previously signed an open letter referring to Israel's control of Palestinians as 'apartheid' and criticized the International Holocaust Remembrance Association’s definition of antisemitism.
Penslar has defended his appointment, stating that the task force represents an important opportunity to determine the nature and extent of antisemitism affecting Jewish students at Harvard and to implement effective policies to improve Jewish student life on campus.
Harvard University stands by Penslar's appointment, describing him as a leading authority in his field who approaches his research and teaching with open-mindedness and respect for conflicting points of view.