The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has released a report highlighting significant levels of antisemitism faced by Jewish educators within teachers unions. The report, based on a survey of 307 Jewish union members, underscores a pervasive issue, with many educators feeling the need to censor themselves.
What we found is not the work of a few bad actors. It is a structural and cultural failure,
said Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO. He emphasized that Jewish educators should feel safe but often resort to self-censorship out of fear of backlash.
Sydney Altfield, CEO of Teach Coalition, expressed alarm over these findings, noting that unions should serve as inclusive spaces for all educators. Instead, many respondents reported encountering antisemitic rhetoric and behavior.
Self-Censorship and Fear of Retaliation
The survey revealed that 70% of respondents believe expressing concerns about antisemitism could lead to professional repercussions. Additionally, 73.6% felt compelled to self-censor, while 47.6% reduced union activity participation due to harmful rhetoric against Jews, Zionists, or Israel.
One educator reported union leaders promoting anti-Israel curriculum and noted a personal experience where their spouse felt threatened at a union event.
Lack of Action Against Hostility
Jewish educators reported widespread anti-Jewish sentiment, particularly following the October 7 Hamas attack. Over 70% felt union statements inadequately addressed the attack or condemned Hamas. Half of the respondents witnessed denial or downplaying of the event’s severity.
Attempts to amend union policies critical of Israel were met with hostility, leading some educators to go into hiding, avoiding any public display of their Jewish identity.
Union Responses to Antisemitism
Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), acknowledged the presence of antisemitism in unions, advocating for constructive engagement to improve safety for Jewish educators.
The AFT has partnered with the Jewish Council for Public Affairs to provide training and resources addressing antisemitism. The National Education Association (NEA) similarly denounces antisemitism, offering workshops and training for educators.
Altfield stressed the need for leadership changes within unions if antisemitism is perceived as stemming from the top. You can pass resolutions, but if the leadership doesn’t support a secure environment for Jews, changes are needed,
she said.
The ADL report sheds light on a broader picture of rising antisemitism. In 2025, over 6,000 antisemitic incidents were recorded in the U.S., including assaults, harassment, and vandalism.