JCRC Statement
April 16, 2024
The following is a statement from Guila Franklin Siegel, associate director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington, in response to the film The Occupation of the American Mind that was scheduled to be shown on Tuesday by a student group on Montgomery College’s campus.
Montgomery College President Jermaine Williams issued a statement condemning the planned screening and a college spokesman told Montgomery Perspective that the movie was not shown.
“We deeply appreciate Dr. Williams’ clear denunciation of antisemitism and commitment to fostering an academic environment at Montgomery College based on values of tolerance, acceptance, and mutual respect. As he correctly notes, The Occupation of the American Mind represents the antithesis of these values and has no place in any classroom or community. We are disappointed that the film was scheduled to be shown on campus today, particularly given Montgomery College’s repeated challenges responding to antisemitism in recent years – and especially on a day when a new study finds that antisemitism in Maryland has reached unprecedented levels.
But we remain confident that people of goodwill in our community will ultimately overcome the forces of hate. We will continue to work with Dr. Williams and his leadership team to ensure a safe and secure environment for all students, faculty, and staff at Montgomery College – not just on paper, but in daily practice."