Published on December 15, 2023, 2:40 am

The rise of anti-Semitism on college campuses, underscored by the testimonies of three university presidents to Congress, evokes a stark image from history. It takes one back to Cambridge in 1943 where Harvard President James Conant stands aside an honoured guest at a special ceremony. The world was embroiled in war and the specter of anti-Semitism made its presence known even then.

Harvard University, under James Conant’s leadership in 1943, conferred an honorary doctorate on Britain’s Prime Minister, weaving into this story a remarkable character who made contributions both academically and politically. Amidst the turmoil of war, serious issues such as anti-Semitism also commanded their attention.

James Bryant Conant held the prestigious title of Harvard president from 1933 to 1953. A trained chemist, he later offered his expertise to U.S. Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, and Eisenhower during critical times in American history. Known for his work in the Office of Scientific Research and Development which led to the development of the atomic bomb, Conant received several accolades for his service including Medals of Merit and Freedom along with the Atomic Pioneers Award.

Described as liberal-minded in terms of admission policies supporting women and minorities access to education at Harvard University, James Conant was a champion for free speech; he did not condone anti-Semitism that may have existed among students on campus at that time.

September 6th, 1943 marked an iconic day when Mr. Conant welcomed Winston Churchill as he addressed around 15 thousand strong gathered at Harvard Yard. Churchill dutifully voiced out about the true essence behind their gratifying struggle:

“We do not primarily wage wars on races but against tyranny regardless of how it presents itself…It is our duty as English-speaking Peoples to protect impartial justice, respect fair play especially towards those less fortunate while upholding personal freedom.”

In reverence to these words, both Conant and the gathered audience were moved to warm applause. Even after his tenure at Harvard, Conant’s impact on its institutional culture has remained robust. His foresight was evident in a sealed letter he left for his 21st-century successor, outlining his optimistic assumptions for the future. He believed that Harvard would continue to uphold the traditions of academic freedom.

In today’s context where offensive speech is differentiated from targeted harassment based on identity politics, there seems to be mismatch with what we generally understand as fair and decent. Given the controversy around). This deviates from what most consider “right and decent.” Tara fall under these categories differently based on their identity, one wonders if it would serve us better to revisit our shared notions of decency and fairness established by the likes of James Conant.

Wouldn’t it be worth considering an approach built on mutual respect and inclusivity rather than division? It wouldn’t be surprising if someone like James Conant or Winston Churchill offered a resounding ‘yes’ to this proposition. Respecting each other’s perspectives through open conversation may indeed hold the key to a more unbiased educational milieu.

The alarming rise in instances of anti-Semitism in contemporary society makes it crucial for institutions to reassess their values and commit themselves to real fairness—all while defending free speech rights. Academic spaces should strive toward fulfilling their roles as guardians of equality. Remembering stalwarts such as Harvard’s James Conant could remind us all about values which uphold humanity over divisive sentiments.