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Dear Kent State community,

We, the Jewish Faculty, Staff and Friends Association of Kent State University, are deeply concerned by reported antisemitic sermons delivered by Imam Nader Taha, who also serves as a math instructor. As reported, in recent sermons Taha endorsed the horrific Oct. 17 Hamas-led attack. 

Taha’s open support for violence raises serious concerns about his role as an instructor. While he claims his sermons were “taken out of context” and that his Quranic interpretation of Yusuf’s King’s dream was misunderstood, in both the biblical and Quranic narratives, Joseph’s interpretation of the king’s dream led to his release from prison and rise to power. 

Instead, Taha’s depiction of Joseph’s dream, however, fundamentally denies the peaceful existence of Jewish citizens, in Israel and worldwide.

President Diacon statement condemning hate speech was a step in the right direction, but we remain with crucial questions:

• How is KSU ensuring that individuals promoting violent ideologies are held accountable?
• How is KSU safeguarding its community, on and off campus, given potential harm due to radicalization stemming from extremist rhetoric?
• How is KSU proactively addressing the rising antisemitism on campus and nationally in education and in raising awareness?

To foster mutual respect and understanding for all members of our diverse community, we must address threats posed by individuals who promote hate, division and violence, even within broader Constitutional protections governing speech.

We respectfully urge Kent State leadership to:

1. Conduct a thorough review of Taha and determine whether his behavior aligns with our core values.
2. Ensure the wellbeing of all members of Kent State  is a top priority.
3. Be proactive in addressing the rising antisemitism so that our students reject hate in all forms.

We call on Kent State administration to act decisively to protect our community and affirm a commitment to peace, and respect for all. This commitment must be reflected in more than words, but in actions.

Submitted for publication by 

• Barry Dunietz (Chemistry), VP JFSFA

Co Signed

• Jeffrey Hallam (College of Public Health), President JFSFA
• Barry Dunietz (Chemistry), VP JFSFA
• Jeffrey Rockland (School of Theatre and Dance), Treasurer JFSFA
• Michael Model (Biological Sciences),  member JFSFA
• Jenya Soprunova (Mathematical Sciences)
• Peter Gordon (Mathematical Sciences)
• Dmitry Ryabogin (Mathematical Sciences)
• Artem Zvavtich (Mathematical Sciences

Barry Dunietz is a guest columnist. Contact him at [email protected].