Jewish educators are raising alarms about antisemitism within teachers unions, based on findings from a report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). The report surveyed 307 Jewish union members, revealing that many have resorted to self-censorship due to dissatisfaction with how antisemitism issues are addressed.
ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt highlighted a systemic problem, stating, “What we found is not the work of a few bad actors. It is a structural and cultural failure.” He emphasized that Jewish educators should feel safe within their unions, but instead face backlash for voicing concerns.
A Dangerous Trend
Greenblatt described the trend as a “dangerous trend of institutionalized antisemitism.”
Sydney Altfield, CEO of Teach Coalition, expressed concern over the unions’ inability to protect Jewish educators, noting that unions should be inclusive spaces.
According to the report, 70% of participants “somewhat or strongly agreed” that discussing the treatment of Jews in union spaces could have reputational or professional consequences. Over 73% felt the need to censor themselves, and nearly half reduced their participation in union activities due to antisemitic rhetoric.
A respondent described their union leadership as actively opposing Jews and Zionists, with some events promoting anti-Israel narratives, even praising actions linked to the violence on October 7. The respondent’s wife faced intimidation at a union event and was targeted online.
The ADL reported that more than 70% of respondents felt that union statements about the Israel-Hamas conflict failed to appropriately condemn the violence. About 52% of participants noticed either minimization or denial of the atrocities, while 49% heard “Zionism” used negatively over the past year.
A significant 69% who reported antisemitism were unsatisfied with the union leadership’s response. Many respondents requested clear condemnation of threats and harassment against Jews.
One educator commented on the climate of fear, saying, “Jewish educators have gone into hiding. They do not admit to being Jewish or wear any identifying clothing/jewelry. We are still being told not to speak.”
Union Responses
American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten acknowledged that no institution is immune to antisemitism and emphasized the importance of constructive engagement to ensure safety.
Weingarten stated that the AFT is collaborating with the Jewish Council for Public Affairs to provide training and resources to tackle antisemitism.
The National Education Association (NEA) also asserted its stance against antisemitism and emphasized the rights of its Jewish members to participate without discrimination. The NEA is involved in providing workshops and resources addressing antisemitism and Holocaust education.
Altfield stressed that union leaders must address these issues, especially if leaders themselves are implicated, suggesting possible changes in leadership if needed.
The ADL reported record levels of antisemitism in the U.S., citing 6,274 incidents in 2025, including 203 assaults and 2,068 acts of vandalism. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges Jewish educators face within and outside their professional environments.
The survey included educators from 24 states, predominantly from California, Massachusetts, and New York, with nearly all respondents working in public schools.
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