DePaul University student assaulted by anti-Israel agitator plans to sue school

Former Israeli Defense Forces soldier Max Long made headlines after being assaulted while holding a sign at DePaul University in the U.S. The sign read, “Come talk about Israel with an IDF Soldier.” Long, who was a leading advocate for Israel on campus, had recently responded to Hamas’ massacre on Oct. 7, where he was deployed as a reservist with the Israeli military.

Long became the target of disgruntled protesters who harassed him and threatened his safety. Eventually, he was beaten unconscious by an anti-Israel agitator, resulting in a concussion and other injuries. Now, with the help of The Lawfare Project, Long is working to sue the school to prevent such incidents from happening again. They are exploring potential legal challenges against DePaul, including Title VI, contract, and tort claims.

Brooke Goldstein, founder and executive director of The Lawfare Project, expressed concern over the rise of discrimination and violence against Jewish students on college campuses. She emphasized that no student should be subjected to abuse for expressing their Jewish identity. Long, in his statement, vowed to continue fighting for his civil rights and against campus hatred.

The assault against Long is just one example of the anti-Israel sentiment that has been growing on college campuses. The incident occurred as Long and another Jewish student, Michael Kaminsky, were peacefully discussing Israel when they were attacked. Chicago police classified the incident as a hate crime, but the suspects remain at large.

DePaul University has condemned the attack, with President Robert L. Manuel expressing outrage over the hate crime. The school is working with authorities to identify the perpetrators and ensure the safety of all students. The Lawfare Project is not only threatening legal action against DePaul but also working to ensure that Long’s attackers are brought to justice.

As the campus continues to grapple with the aftermath of the assault, Long remains determined to stand up for his Jewish identity. The Jewish community has rallied around him, offering support and solidarity. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need to combat discrimination and violence on college campuses and ensure the safety of all students, regardless of their background.