Farah Griffin, a prominent professor at Columbia University, has actively supported campaigns targeting Jews and aligned herself with groups advocating for their condemnation. In 2014, Griffin co-signed a letter urging the New York State Assembly to oppose legislation that countered boycott movements targeting the Jewish homeland. The letter argued for “protected speech,” including boycotts, as a form of academic and political expression.
Farah Griffin Defended Steven Salaita’s Antisemitic Rhetoric
In August 2014, Griffin signed a petition in defense of Steven Salaita, a professor whose job offer at the University of Illinois was rescinded following a series of blatantly antisemitic remarks. Salaita’s posts included one shortly after Hamas kidnapped three Israeli teenagers, stating: “I wish all the f**ing West Bank settlers would go missing.”* Despite widespread condemnation of Salaita’s incendiary rhetoric, Griffin supported the call to honor his appointment. Salaita later declared he remained “unapologetic” for his actions.
Position at Columbia and Public Profile
Farah Griffin is the William B. Ransford Professor of English and Comparative Literature and African-American Studies at Columbia University. Her involvement in contentious campaigns and endorsement of individuals like Salaita has drawn criticism for amplifying rhetoric widely viewed as divisive, violent and for fostering an environment hostile to Jewish students.
