A Zionist birthday: Kosher Barbie takes on campus antisemitism

On a day that celebrates women around the globe, I am dedicating my birthday to amplifying my Israeli voice in response to the disturbing rise of antisemitism on college campuses.

During a panel at Hillel, the largest Jewish student organization in the world, I discussed the importance of standing together against hatred and discrimination. My journey as a “Kosher Barbie“—my social media persona which I combat antisemitism through fashion and art—has highlighted the power of self-expression. I encouraged students to fully embrace their identities on college campuses.

Jon Warech, the Executive Director of Hillel at FIU, illuminated the troubling reality of antisemitism permeating higher education. “A college campus is a microcosm of society. When there is hatred towards Jews around the world, we see it reflected on campus. FIU recently received an A grade from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for its campus climate, underscoring the commitment of our administration, faculty, campus police, and the advocacy efforts of Hillel and our Jewish students. When we are vocal, we win,” Warech stated.

As debates surrounding rising antisemitism on college campuses continue, recent statistics paint a disheartening picture: a staggering 83% of Jewish college students in the United States have reported experiencing antisemitism since October 7.

The recent survey by Hillel International highlights the extent of this issue—53% of Jewish students reported feeling uncomfortable expressing their pro-Israel views, while 42% experienced various forms of discrimination.

The surge in antisemitic incidents has attracted national condemnation. U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon poignantly remarked, “Americans have watched in horror for more than a year now as Jewish students have been assaulted and harassed on elite university campuses. Institutions that receive federal funds have a responsibility to protect all students from discrimination.”

This is a significant warning for campuses like Columbia University, as the federal government considers withholding $51.4 million in contracts in response to escalating antisemitism. Such measures highlight the gravity of the situation and the responsibility that educational institutions bear in creating safe environments for every student, regardless of their background.

It is our shared responsibility to ensure that college campuses are not just places of learning, but also safe havens for all students, allowing them to express their Jewish faith freely and without fear.