Conversations around antisemitism, identity and safety on campus have become increasingly prominent across the higher education sector in recent years. In response, The University of Sydney appointed Dr Michael Abrahams-Sprod, Chair of Hebrew and Jewish Studies in the School of Languages and Cultures, as Special Advisor to the Vice-Chancellor and President on antisemitism.
Dr Abrahams-Sprod says his work in the space intensified following the events of 7 October 2023 and the subsequent rise in antisemitism experienced across universities nationally. Drawing on his academic expertise in Jewish history and Israel and Palestine studies, he became increasingly involved in supporting staff and students, delivering education programs and advising university leaders across the sector.
As part of this work, he contributed to national training initiatives developed in partnership with the Office of the Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism and the Sydney Jewish Museum, helping deliver training programs for university executives and staff across Australia.
A key focus of the role is addressing gaps in public understanding around Jewish history and antisemitism.
“One thing that may surprise people is that even within university environments, where we assume there is a high level of knowledge and awareness, many people know very little about Jewish people, Jewish history or antisemitism.”
Dr Abrahams-Sprod explains that contemporary antisemitism often draws on longstanding historical stereotypes and tropes that are now circulating rapidly through social media and online discourse.
“It is important to say that criticism of Israel is not inherently antisemitic. However, when longstanding stereotypes or collective accusations are directed at Jewish people or applied to Israel in ways that draw upon historic forms of hatred, then we move into antisemitism, we move into into racism.”
He says the speed and fragmentation of online communication has made nuanced discussion increasingly difficult.
“People increasingly consume information in fragments. They engage with images, captions, short videos and highly emotional content, often without broader historical or political context.”
One thing that may surprise people is that even within university environments, where we assume there is a high level of knowledge and awareness, many people know very little about Jewish people, Jewish history or antisemitism.
Dr Michael Abrahams-Sprod
The University’s current awareness training programs combine online learning with face-to-face facilitated discussions designed to create safe spaces for difficult conversations. According to Dr Abrahams-Sprod, participants consistently respond positively to the sessions and often leave wanting further discussion and engagement.
“The goal is not to tell people what to think. It is to support understanding, encourage informed discussion and help people recognise harmful narratives and behaviours.”
Reflecting on the broader challenges facing universities, Dr Abrahams-Sprod says rebuilding spaces for respectful intellectual debate remains essential.
“The current moment requires education, reflection, and intellectual honesty.”
Over the past two and a half years, the University has undertaken significant reviews and invested in education and awareness initiatives across the institution. More than 120 senior staff and executives have already participated in training programs, with further sessions planned for frontline services, Protective Services staff and members of Senate at this university.
“There is a genuine commitment by the University Executive to education, awareness and improving institutional culture, and I think that has been very significant.”
Dr Abrahams-Sprod says the broader goal is to support a stronger culture of understanding, respectful dialogue and thoughtful engagement across the University community.