http://news.collegemedianetwork.com/university-of-georgia/a-formal-call-to-retract-condemn-editorial-cartoon

On behalf of ourselves and the organizations that we represent, we strongly condemn the anti-Semitism in [Thursday’s] editorial cartoon.

In the cartoon, there are three clear anti-Semitic overtones: the use of a stereotypical Jewish name in “Checkpoint Chaim”, the placement of the Jewish star on the Israeli soldier’s helmet and the suggestion that Jews care most about saving money in the caption.

To the reader: What did these three references add to the political opinion of the cartoon? The slur in the caption takes an edgy, yet legitimate political cartoon and turns it into an ugly smear.

From the Middle Ages, Jews have been targets of persecution stemming from the stereotype that they are spendthrift money-swindlers, using economic gain for power. This stereotype has been thrust onto Jews unjustifiably since the 12th century.

Regardless of the politics regarding the Arab-Israeli conflict, we find this cartoon as an attack on our religious views and cultural heritage. Throughout history, anti-Semitism has led to events ranging from the Spanish Inquisition, the pogroms in Russia, and to the ultimate murder of the Six Million in the Holocaust.

Serving and representing the diverse community of the University of Georgia, The Red & Black should exercise extreme caution in their editorial decisions regarding race or religion, especially in the context of editorial cartoons. We call upon the leadership of The Red & Black to publish a retraction and to condemn anti-Semitism on campus.

Jonathan Arogeti
Junior, Atlanta
President, Tau Epsilon Phi fraternity

Greg Wilson
Junior, Marietta
President, Christians United for Israel-UGA