On October 7, the city’s Department of Education addressed the rising incidents of anti-Semitism and discrimination against Muslims on school campuses. In addition to its existing online complaint system, the department has introduced an anti-hate hotline to assist students and staff in reporting issues more efficiently.

This new hotline, which coincides with the anniversary of the Israel-Hamas conflict, is staffed by department personnel and can be reached at (718) 935-2889. It’s available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Callers have the option to remain anonymous, although providing a student or employee ID can help expedite their reports. The department’s online complaint portal has been in place for four years and will continue to handle incidents of hatred, harassment, and discrimination in schools.

Since the Israel-Hamas conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, tensions have surged among students with differing views on the issue, leading to an increase in hate-related incidents. The previous school year saw 440 reported instances of hate, harassment, or discrimination related to race or nationality, representing a 30% spike from the previous year. There were also nearly 290 reports connected to religious discrimination, with an alarming 78% increase. A recent school survey revealed that about 40% of middle and high school students witnessed harassment based on race, ethnicity, religion, or immigration status—up from 30% before the pandemic.

Incoming Education Director Melissa Aviles-Ramos expressed the department’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy regarding hate incidents, stating that the new anti-hate hotline “will help ensure that incidents of hate, harassment, and discrimination are reported and addressed.”

Additionally, the “Meeting the Moment” initiative, launched as a response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, will be unveiling new measures timed with the anniversary of the conflict. This fall, new anti-discrimination training focused on anti-Semitism and discrimination against Muslims will be introduced for staff. Furthermore, a new curriculum titled “Hidden Voices,” which shines a light on overlooked historical figures, is set to be implemented before the end of the school year, exploring topics related to American Muslims and Jews. The city is also encouraging schools to arrange museum visits for students to enrich their understanding of diverse cultures and histories.