Press

For press inquiries, please contact info@bchillel.org.

Statement on May 8, 2025 Protest at Tanger Hillel

Dear Tanger Hillel Community,

I’m reaching out as a disturbing anti-Israel protest occurred on our campus yesterday, May 8. Protesters violated campus policies and promoted deeply troubling antisemitic rhetoric, including chants of “Say it loud, say it clear, we don’t want no Zionists here,” and banners with inverted red triangles, a symbol widely recognized as a call for violence against Jews.

What began as a protest on the campus Quad later moved directly to our Tanger Hillel House after NYPD officers dispersed the crowd. 

Inside Hillel, students were studying and staff were working, then we quickly went into lockdown. While a physical altercation broke out between the NYPD officers and the protesters in front of our building, the police eventually moved the crowd away from the entrance. Thankfully, no one inside was harmed. I’m incredibly proud of our students who stayed calm, our staff who acted quickly, and the officers who bravely protected us. 

We want to be absolutely clear: targeting the Jewish student center is not peaceful protest—it is harassment, intimidation, and an antisemitic act of aggression that has no place in our community.

We are grateful to President Anderson, Brooklyn College, CUNY Public Safety, and the NYPD for their swift response and commitment to student safety. Their actions prevented the situation from escalating further. We continue to be in close communication with Brooklyn College administration and public safety, and we have increased security presence around Hillel House. 

We remain committed to being a welcoming home for Jewish life on campus. This evening, we look forward to coming together for Shabbat. And we’re all looking forward to marching in the Israel Day Parade next week.

When outside voices spread fear and division, inside our building, students find comfort, safety, and support. They know they have a place to go where they are welcomed, protected, and surrounded by community. That is the power of Tanger Hillel. 

Many community members have asked how they can support us through these challenging times. This Global Giving Week, every dollar you give will be matched up to $10,000. Your generosity today will go twice as far in helping us provide the security, stability and care our students rely on.

Please don't hesitate to contact us with any concerns. Our doors remain open, and our community stands strong together.

Shabbat Shalom,

Nadya Drukker

Executive Director,Tanger Hillel at Brooklyn College