It isn’t just Jews who should have been horrified by what happened at Harvard. The story was far more than an illustration of vile anti-Semitism at one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world. It demonstrated the profound failure of our contemporary educational system to include as one of its most important concerns the goal of civilized behavior.
The Program on Negotiation at Harvard Law School, co-sponsored by the Jewish Law Students Association and Harvard Hillel, hosted a conversation between former Israeli Minister Tzipi Livni and American Diplomat Dennis Ross. After the presentation of alternate views on the political situation between Israel and the Palestinians, a question-and-answer period followed. This was an opportunity for Harvard’s “best and the brightest” to address their concerns and to share their insights. One of the students indicated he had a question for the Israeli representative.
“My question is for Tzipi Livni – how is it that you are so smelly?”
When his question induced puzzlement, he followed up: “It’s regarding your odor – about the odor of Tzipi Livni, very smelly.”
“How was it that you are so smelly?” was regarded as offensive by many of those present because it was viewed as a specifically anti-Semitic barb. Jeremy Salinger, Jacqueline Wolpoe, and Jonathan Gartner, the current co-presidents and immediate past president of the Jewish Law Students Association, made clear the direct links between the “smelly Jew” accusation and stereotype of the Jew for centuries as “smelly and dirty.”
While the identity of the law student who was the source of this inflammatory “question” was concealed for a number of days by Harvard University, it subsequently became known , and the young man, Husam El-Qoulaq, was adamant in his own defense in insisting that he had no previous knowledge of this particular insult’s history of anti-Semitic overtones.
And that, remarkably enough, made Husam certain that he did nothing wrong and his behavior was perfectly justifiable.
Following in the vein of today’s non-apologetic apologies, Husam then publicly wrote a disclaimer: “I am writing to apologize, as sincerely as I can via this limited form of communication, to anyone who may have felt offended by the comments I made last week.” He writes to apologize if anyone may have felt offended – which Husam clearly doesn’t believe they should feel. “To be very clear, as there seems to be some confusion, I would never, ever, ever call anyone, under any circumstances, a ‘smelly Jew’. Such a comment is utterly repugnant, and I am absolutely horrified that some readers have been led to believe that I would ever say such a thing.”
Lack of civility makes impossible the very existence of civilized society.
Of course the whole thing started because that’s precisely what Husam did say – but take the soon-to-be graduated Harvard lawyer’s word for it that he would never ever, under any circumstances, call anyone a “smelly Jew” – except maybe Tzipi Livni who for some reason doesn’t count in his supposed confessional.
Sure enough, eleven Jews at the university wrote an open letter criticizing those who condemned Husam for his outburst. His supporters are appalled that he is “a victim of a vicious smear campaign.”
What amazes me is the fact that the focus has consistently emphasized the anti-Semitic aspect of this outrageous incident, as if only racism warranted our disapproval. His obnoxious and uncivilized behavior has remained free from criticism and condemnation. Rudeness, insolence, disrespect and discourtesy violate the sanctity of all human beings, not merely against a specific group. Lack of civility makes impossible the very existence of civilized society.
Jewish tradition powerfully makes the point by way of the way in which we observe the days preceding Shavuot, the holiday commemorating the divine gift of the Torah to the Jewish people. These days should have been marked by joy and happy anticipation. Instead they have become a time of sadness and mourning. That is because in Talmudic times a plague struck the students of Rabbi Akiva, during which thousands of them died. The rabbis, in their wisdom, however knew the cause of this tragedy. It was because the scholars, with all their learning, “did not show respect one to another”. Their behavior belied their intellect. Their insensitivity canceled out the blessing of their scholarship. And that is a lesson that needs very much to be understood in our times.
Common courtesy, what in Hebrew is known as derech eretz, precedes even Torah. How tragic that Harvard has somehow been unable to transmit that idea and ideal to its brilliant scholars.
(69) Ronald Nuxon, June 18, 2020 10:56 PM
The Apology
This budding lawyer’s apology for his disgusting and anti/Semitic statement (and I always use the term sparingly) is not worth two cents. He meant everything he said, and it was deliberate. Had he addressed an Afro-American speaker so, he not only would have been expelled from this “institution if higher learning”, he would have been forced to beg forgiveness, less his legal career be jeopardized. It’s high time applicants for American law schools be vetted for moral character as well as possible criminal record.
(68) Dean M Blake, June 17, 2020 12:43 AM
Livni stepped in something when she entered Harvard Yard.
Unavoidably stepped in something traversing thru Harvard Yard
(67) Anonymous, June 24, 2019 7:06 PM
In the face of insults...how nice must we really be?
Through history, the Jews have been insulted by any and all kinds of stupid and offensive people. But the fact they are stupid and offensive is not enough for me anymore. I am getting tired of it. And that means when someone insults me as a Jew in any way....they will never forget it and think twice the next time. One by one in my own little way I am showing them how to behave like human beings. And if I ever step over the line......Hashem in his infinite power will know and find a way to forgive me. And by the way, I am a woman in my 70's but Hashem has granted me the strength that I need for this task.
(66) Marvin Brandt, June 22, 2019 11:21 PM
With all the problems and issues in the world, to hear a comment like this in a serious discussion in an institution of high regard as Harvard is absolutely ridiculous and to be supported by others there of the sect involved is beyond comprehension...This generation needs to put down its computers and computer games and shut them down and learn how to think...
(65) Anonymous, June 22, 2019 11:03 PM
I would have answered because we leave to closely with arabs and their smell got on our clothes to shut his dirty mouth ! He should be evicted of Harvard !!!!
(64) Inbar Frishman, June 22, 2019 10:35 PM
How is it that there's been no commentary on the inanity of such a question in such a context? Antisemitism briefly aside, what adult asks a visiting speaker why she's "smelly"???
Anonymous, June 16, 2020 7:54 PM
Smelly?
This male intends to be a lawyer? What, is he, 10? Yes, inane - so inane it questions his thinking capacity.
(63) Anonymous, June 21, 2019 8:41 AM
Which stereotypes hurt us more, ones viciously made up out of whole cloth, or ones that have an element of truth?s
This article was painful for me to read because whether or not the professor has body odor issues, I know I myself have been guilty of hygienic neglect and I know many (though probably not a majority) of my peers are similarly negligent in this. Once I had a boss, as tactfully as she could, alert me to the problem and urged me, with genuine gentleness, trying her best not to offend, to address the problem. And while I do believe this can be a pattern in *any* ethnic group, I think these lapses in our community have some connection to the economic ethic (again, a painful stereotype, but as to which category each can judge) social structure and ritual requirements (davening, learning regimens etc. on top of financial/work and family commitments). Basically, we're all under lots of pressures, relentlessly, in the above areas (family, ritual, job/economic). But Jewish social structure is rigidly and aggressively hierarchical, even if ostensibly "meritocratic." Jews are expected to achieve the most affluent career they can obtain, unless they go the rabbinic route, where they must be a macher in Torah. The ethos is competitive and high pressure, either in school for grades (qua grades, not learning) to achieve status and affluence and support a family (and exorbitant tuition for many kids, then weddings etc.), it takes $$$$$. But more than that pressure, its the resulting highly stratified social structure which creates large divisions: professionals, businessmen, bankers, rebbes/Rabbeim, all these forming the multitiered Jewish upper class, then everyone else below, basically middle-middle class, working class and poor. Whatever the status, you're expected to be hyper-exerting for success, shvitzing through life. Everybody schvitzing, but the upper class allow themselves a break to address bourgeois hygiene-propriety, but lapse in that under high pressure; the further down in the hierarchy, the more being continuously clean can be/seem an unattainable luxury.
Anonymous, June 21, 2019 6:48 PM
A BIG omission in my sketch of Jewish social structure
BH, in upper tier there is a growing CREATIVE and entrepreneurial group, who though variegated in vastly different careers, rely on creative talent to make careers based on innovative contributions in fields like science, engineering, programming, web/app development, and academia.
Although I imply a certain skepticism toward aspects of this upper echelon (before including this addendum), it's nice that there is a substantial zone where our emphasis on academic achievement connects as much with creativity and originality as it does with conformity. Most of the professional endeavor in my original post have always mixed achievement and conformity (and highly predictable, reliable, reliably lucrative career paths), whereas nowadays Jewish education has more tolerance for deep intellectual cultivation relatively untethered from the pure credentialism/credential-striving that was more the universal Jewish norm till recently. The latter is still strong, but more tolerance or inquisitiveness and creativity also. The latter always had a place of course, but more marginal. BH its becoming more mainstream as the Jewish community becomes more receptive to the broader society's critique of the "robot meritocracy" so many of our own relied on for careers ("my son the doctor").
Anonymous, June 17, 2020 2:55 PM
Why 'anonymous'? Ashamed of your 'principles'?
Amazing how strongly you word your opinions, but don't have the courage to stand behind them. What are you afraid of - that someone might burst your balloon of pretentiousness and show you for the bigot you make yourself out to be?
Chasya Bernstein, June 17, 2020 2:44 PM
Do you realize how anti-Semitic your statements are?
Are you seriously proposing that 'smelly' is actually an appropriate description of Jews , on whom you heap the added calumnies of" these lapses in our community have some connection to the economic ethic (again, a painful stereotype, but as to which category each can judge) social structure and ritual requirements (davening, learning regimens etc. on top of financial/work and family commitments)" . Further on you add, "the upper class allow themselves a break to address bourgeois hygiene-propriety, but lapse in that under high pressure; the further down in the hierarchy, the more being continuously clean can be/seem an unattainable luxury."
Are you insinuating (no, stating outright!) that rich, assimilated Jews can indulge in proper hygiene, but 'lower class' Jews do not? Have you ever studied the laws of cleanliness, washing, etc in Yiddishkeit? Or do you agree with that Arab that Jews are inherently smelly?
No matter how you couch your prejudices, no matter the 'professional' language you choose to use, no matter the back=handed compliments about 'achievement' that you spout - it all boils down to the same thing: You are ashamed to be associated with Jews who have not bought into assimilating into the wonderfully advanced Western culture.
(62) Anonymous, June 20, 2019 5:44 PM
PUt in quotes
I ould put the words "brilliant scholars" in quotes.
(61) G. D. McFetridge, January 31, 2019 10:35 PM
Unconscious mind
Carl Jung once said something to the effect of this: We tend to assume in daily life that people act in a "conscious manner." However, the truth is most people don't. Added to this, one of Freud's great contributions to humanity was the idea that behavior is generated by unconscious impulses. Interestingly enough, unconscious behavior can also be the result of the activation of defense mechanisms within a given individual; thus, we might ask if this nasty little privileged-class fellow was consciously attacking a Jew for the fact that he allegedly smelled, or was this a defense mechanism against another, perhaps deeper psychological issue. Under the auspices of Freudian psychology there is a term called reaction formation, wherein the underlying impulse is the opposite of the manifest expression; thus I tender for your consideration the possibility that our nasty little man actually found himself sexually attracted to the person in question, but because such an attraction was unconsciously unacceptable within the constructs of the super-ego, the opposite defensive expression was enacted, i.e., the man is smelly thus unattractive. So ... I'm guessing that our nasty little man has some issues he might want to check into, like maybe he has unresolved father issues that have led him to unconscious homosexual tendencies camouflaged under the auspices of bigotry. Do I stand on this analysis soundly? ... well, maybe or maybe not, but if the nasty man wants to be nasty, let's let him feel what it is like to be hung with a label, whether it is true or not.
(60) Anonymous, January 27, 2019 3:46 PM
Outrageous
We are to blame in our colleges we continue to believe that we need open dialogue to show the world how open and democratic we are as a people . Our time should be spent openly fighting the BDS movement . She should have called him out right there on the spot , as everyone else in the hall should have done . We need to stop wringing our hands after the fact . Follow this guys career see who chooses to hire hires him after law school and see that he doesn’t move up the corporate ladder . The last thing we need is one more openly anti Semitic person in a position of power . We only need to call out other people for exactly who and what they are . An open protest on campus should be the next step !!!
(59) Rachel, January 25, 2019 7:12 PM
Orthodox Family just kicked off American Airlines flight because other passengers claimed they were smelly
This just happened. I hope Aish will investigate and complain.
(58) Ian Schorr, January 25, 2019 1:55 PM
The "elitists"
What he said "smells," but far worse than the content is the fact that his spin stinks and the whole environment of where he said it reeks. The spin really needs a shovel - a Harvard law student has no clue about derisive vocabulary? He got into Harvard? An obviously somewhat educated person doesn't read the secular newspapers? A literate Muslim doesn't know his own religious history that has condemned Jews practically from day #1? Does this Harvard student not have access to the internet where speeches of current Imams in the western world and certainly all over the Muslim world continuously describe Jews in similar terms? Does this student in a top-notch law school live like Jews, "behind trees and under rocks" like the imams preach, so he couldn't mingle with the real world and understand what he was saying? Did this future Harvard graduated lawyer want those in the courtroom of society and public opinion actually believe he had an olfactory experience with Ms. Livni and was asking a real question about that? If so, he should fail his diploma giving ceremony, because such a defense for a client would be ruled by any judge to be an inadequate legal representation. WHAT "STINKS" MORE is the whole environment at Harvard that I assume exists, if this future graduate was not disciplined, and disciplined under the Harvard symbol VERITAS!! SHAME ON HARVARD AND SHAME ON THOSE IN ATTENDANCE WHO DID NOT RISE UP AND CONDEMN THEIR FELLOW STUDENT. (and we won't even touch on the double standard issue, namely, just imagine the massive protests and marches and news media talking heads 24 hour coverage, if the current President of the United States said the same thing about any other minority? (yes, the Jews are a minority even if they control all the banks and the news media!!! )
(57) Fred Hacker, January 3, 2019 7:30 PM
Appropriate behavior
Is Husan a newcomer? He has, as yet, not learned, basic American socially acceptable behavior.
(56) CHARLIE, September 5, 2017 1:52 PM
SMELLY
The blacks used to be considered "smelly" not so long ago. As for the "jewish" defenders of the obviously antisemite muslim who insulted "unknowingly" the smelly definitely applies to them. Their disgusting defense of the "innocent" muslim does not augur well for their future career.
Andrea Schonberger, February 2, 2020 8:42 PM
True dat!
I'm old enough to remember when many White folks thought that Black people naturally smelled bad and that's really funny as my Mexican grandmother thought White people smelled like wet dogs LOL! Since I'm half-White I'm convinced that on really hot summer days I can smell the odor of wet dog on me LOL! When I lived in Korea for 2 years, my husband is retired military, I heard Americans complaining all the time that Koreans smelled bad--I smelled nothing myself but when I returned to the USA some people claimed that I had an odd body odor. I figured it might have been all the Korean food I ate. So maybe it's possible to have body odors that we're not aware of but it has nothing to do with race or ethnic group.
(55) Asher, May 7, 2017 8:40 AM
Smelly is a well known and growing anti-semitic perjury
In modern and current anti-Semitic conduct, describing (verbally or non-verbally) Jews as smelly is prevalent in the UK, Europe and elsewhere. It started in medieval times and is linked to Jews being poor, begging, wandering in rags etc. Like lots of anti-Semitic canards, it is the opposite of the truth since observant Jews have always practiced standards of cleanliness and hygiene far in excess of gentiles. Washing in morning, after bathroom and before meals, mikvah and weekly erev Shabbat. Not to forget the annual Pesach cleaning etc. While actually saying 'you are a smelly Jew' to ones face is rare, non-verbal forms are common. For instance the well-timed sniff as people walk past. Also holding or touching of the nose. In some cases people wrap a scarf or hanky across nose and mouth. These are all increasingly common and socially acceptable amongst gentiles
(54) Deborah, June 9, 2016 3:47 PM
Definitely Anti-Semitic
If a white person asked me why I was so smelly, I would be well within my rights to pronounce that a racist comment, as this slur has been used against black people for centuries. So I can understand the rage against this comment. It was anti-Semitic and his feigned innocence is disturbing.
(53) Anonymous, May 25, 2016 10:22 PM
What Jews forget
It is a Jewish halacha law that Esau hates Jacob.
They need no reason. It is impure hate. It will never stop.
Jews must comport and conduct themselves so that these swine do not even think of approaching them.
Unfortunately Tzipi Livni does not adhere to authentic Jewish religious tradition.
If she did this treif animal would have had fear and trepidation to approach a Jewish women in anything but the most respectful manner.
(52) Thom McCann, May 25, 2016 10:12 PM
Answer to anti-Semites
Tzipi Livni should have asked him outright ,"How come you are an anti-Semite?"
These seemingly small slights to Jews add up to the blatant anti-Semitism that grew like a cancer in Nazi Germany.
It took a few years but the tactic worked as the language was used to dehumanize Jews as roaches that could be murdered without a second thought by a brainwashed German nation.
This slander and calumny should be stopped dead in its tracks—especially on campuses—because it has already deteriorated into vile hatred and violence against Jewish students.
(51) David, May 24, 2016 9:52 PM
Anti-Israel, not anti-semitic
This was not anti-semitism, it was just dirty politics.
A web search on "Husam El-Qoulaq" reveals that he's an anti-Israel Palestinian activist.
But his clever remark was successful. It's distracted Jews from the Israel-Palestine issues, and instead has them wasting time whining about anti-semitic speech.
(50) Susan Siegal, May 19, 2016 11:26 PM
To ask such a question is rude, ignorant ,and infantile.Furthermore, to ask that question to a Jew is anti-Semitic.
(49) John Crow, May 19, 2016 2:00 PM
Who would have guessed it?
What a surprise, the offensive hate monger turned out to be a bearded muppet of the Muslim persuasion. Quick, make him into a victim instead of a disgusting anti-Semite
(48) Anonymous, May 19, 2016 1:51 PM
Hope No One ever hires him... Harvard should be embarrassed.
(47) Jack Greenspan, May 19, 2016 2:42 AM
What exactly does the questioner's comment mean?
If the questioner claims he didn't know the anti-semitic association of "smelly", what exactly did he hope to illicit as a response from Ms. Livni? It's bad enough that a Harvard law student uses an anti-semitic slur but, what is even worse for Harvard, is why they would admit someone who is obviously such a moron and bore. Is this the level of intellectual discourse that Harvard promotes?
(46) eugene mazzilli, May 18, 2016 8:46 PM
Too stupid for words
Hasn't anyone ever heard of the expression, They're so smart that they're stupid. Well this carries that expression as well as the aged expression of hatred handed down by the families of this person as well as the company he keeps. Harvard is just another spineless institution that is afraid to say boo because it may hurt their image of free speech and expressionism.
It is no use, this persons innermost feelings were uncontrollably let out and he will never genuinely love Jews or anyone, other than his own kind. The hatred that he carries can never be erased. It goes on and on until someone or something wakes them up to a higher form of humanism....and that is very rare. It is a sad commentary that this person is in this country at all. Donald Trump is right, all immigrants should be vetted and go through the true entry and naturalization process, even those here on green cards and educational visas. Behavior such as this is reason for expulsion, because this behavior is a contagious disease, contaminating everyone and everything they come in contact with. I say this, we have a free country with freedom of speech....but when one practices hatred and openly expresses an innermost hatred for one person or group of people, they have clearly stepped over the line of common decency and love of their fellow man. This is a shameful indication of what goes on in our society today. Parents had better start telling their children how to behave in society...that is to be kind, decent, respectful of everyone, to love one another as one self and to walk humbly with your God, (whomever that God may be) and to love God with all of your heart, mind and soul. I pray to God....How long do we have to wait for Messiah to come?
(45) Anonymous, May 17, 2016 8:59 PM
How to respond?
How does one respond to such a provocation in a public forum? a private conversation? a business meeting? chance encounter? I am so taken back by this disgraceful behavior. What if others are not?
Anonymous, June 17, 2020 2:53 PM
By asking him pointed questions
One could respond to such a 'question' with some pointed questions of one's own. For example, 'How is it that your parents - and Harvard!- could not succeed in teaching you simple human respect?' Or, in this particular forum, turn away from him completely and say, 'Next question, please. And I hope this one will be intelligent and relevant to the topic under discussion.'
(44) Karen, May 17, 2016 4:23 PM
It isn't about Jews in the broader sense!
The comment was disgusting regardless of whom it was directed at. It was rude and demeaning. This person doesn't appear to have the compassion of a fruit fly, his "apology" notwithstanding. It isn't about whether you're a "liberal" or vote Democrat. And tRump certainly isn't the answer to anything. There is NOTHING to prevent any of us from being kind and respectful to one another. This person that made the comments appears to be sorely lacking in these behaviours, regardless of his ethnicicity. Shame on those who would defend his behavior. He alone is responsible for it.
(43) daphna J. Goren, RN,MSN, May 17, 2016 3:25 PM
ugly scapegoating at Harvard University
It was the Nazies who first described Jews as "dirty", "and
"unwashed" or "unclean" because of their particular clothing or sporting a long beard or sideburns. The Nazies lacked all semblance of humanity, acceptance, willingness to understand others' tradition. They were one and all EVILand
INHUMANE. Who would have thought that an Ivy League, prestigious university such as Harvard would tolerate the Arab HUSAM making those remarks in 2016 without serious consequences. HUSAM getting a law degree at Harvard? Really?What a shame for Harvard... Let's keep a close eye onHUSAM EL Qoulaq
(42) Jennifer, May 17, 2016 2:18 PM
I'm assuming this person knew what he was saying and Was trying to be provocative. He looks Arab and his name looks Arab. I'm neither a Jew nor Arab. However, I now understand How it could be offensive if I asked a Jew why they smelled which I would never ask anyone especially in a public forum. A child would ask something like this because they are unsophisticated and ignorant or trying to make fun of someone. If he goes to Harvard he's obviously learned to use straw dogs to debate and for attention; rather than knowing how to ask intelligent questions or make intelligent comments. Or he doesn't know how to ask thought provoking questions because he's not interested in learning but is more interested in fighting. Why would other Jews support him?
(41) Elisheva, May 17, 2016 12:57 PM
Thank You
Rabbi, thank you so much for speaking up against this disgusting behavior. It is so unfortunate that so many Jews do not recognize the importance of defending your fellow Jew. In the guise of Political Correctness, and in the guise of liberalism, we will ultimately destroy ourselves if we don't stand up for justice for our fellow Jew because as you can see, very few defend the Jews.
(40) Murray, May 17, 2016 3:16 AM
Why Has Harvard Lowered Their Standards?
Harvard used to accept either intelligent or very well connected students. Times have really changed
(39) J Dubow, May 16, 2016 11:10 PM
The eleven Jewish students are future Sonderkommandos
The eleven students who stood up for this sick outburst and its subsequent refusal to act by Harvard are the same type of people who worked for Hitler as Sonderkommandos. It is an example of how much we need Trump to stop Muslim immigration before we are overrun with nazis like this students.
The liberal hypocritical sociopaths that run Harvard are precisely the same people described by Hermann Hesse in his book "The Glass Bead Game". They call any criticism of Islam as Islamophobia, the irrational fear of Islam. What would they call the rational fear of Islam based on the Koran:
http://www.thereligionofpeace.com/pages/quran/violence.aspx
(38) Anonymous, May 16, 2016 8:46 PM
Personally speaking I do feel that there was so much hate in this muslim guy when he has thrown the words"smelly jew", the arab guy really wanted to show off so badly thinking that he has all the money so he can afford to be insensitive, its utterly wrong and the Board Deputy of Harvard Uni should make a decision upon banning this individual! Cause he has written an appology letter afterwards, doesn't matter, if he had done once he will do endless times!
(37) Neal Abramson, May 16, 2016 2:54 PM
A sign of the times
The progressive/liberal agenda has taken hold of many areas of current society, including all levels of education. This is displayed by the incident in this article. I hope everyone in the US realizes that all these years of voting "Democrat" has not leveled the playing field, it has further divided it.
(36) KATHLEEN Dahnke Nottestad, May 16, 2016 2:53 PM
JUST YOU WAIT (fill in your name if appropriate). I know NOT YOU!!! Think again!!!
Harvard is no different than most higher education colleges. It may well be considered as one of the best - BUT are they?bottom line your either part of the solution or part of the problem. guess it doesn't effect them directly so it's like water of a ducks back. the Holocaust happened because those in positions to do right did exactly like the faculty in prestigious and run of the mill colleges look the other way. Example of my point Denmark's president choose to be part of the solution and saved many lives of those targeted by Hitler. His actions spoke volumes of what he stood for - I'm sure his rewards are great in his eternity years. It is wrong to sweep it under the rug - it will continue to grow and then these prestigious individuals will throw up their hands " how did this happen!!" Exactly they are part of the problem.!! Ask any prisoner - who BELONG behind bars "if they did the crime?" Surprise everyone will tell you exactly what this quilty of being a Jew hater did. LIE LIE and then swear to it and those who allowed the deceit are as quilty as the party that said it. it speaks volumes of who they too are. if they claim different let's see what they did to remedy the situation. others who backed his hatred believe he will appreciate their gullibility for that is what they are - and when the hatred is directed without a doubt at YOU and YOU and YOU remember be a duck and let it roll down your back!! I am not impressed if that is how Harvard is governed nor other places of higher education- leaves a whole hell of a lot to be desired. intelligence to be worth anything must be tempered with heart and empathy - Harvard and other colleges lack this one day it will end and war and hatred will prevail. Bullying and outright hatred and society believing the perpetrator will one day get his or her just ending!! Life is played out on the stage right vs wrong and those who continuely bury their heads in the sand have done society a great injustice. WAKE UP!!
(35) Anonymous, May 16, 2016 10:09 AM
Curstesy? Tragedy?
Its about islamic warfare against the Jews on American/Canadian College campuses - and it not "tragedy" but strategic that this article does not address - is a pixel, the constituent part of a far larger picture!
(34) Myrna Solganick, May 16, 2016 3:33 AM
The response of Harvard is intolerable. I once attended a seminar on racism and asked the presenter if he thought anti semitism should be included in discussions about racism. He did. I fail to comprehend why ANY anti semitism is tolerated, in this case, by Harvard. If Ms. Livni had been a person of color, or a man, you can bet the response of the institution would have been very different.
(33) georgette B, May 15, 2016 10:57 PM
discourtesy, rudeness ,disrespect and insolence is what Harvard produces to be a future lawyer????
I will remember this young man's name in utterly disgust
(32) Anonymous, May 15, 2016 9:27 PM
I can relate!
I had a temp job in 1993 in Washington, DC and I received a call from the agency not to come back because someone complained I smelled. I worked in a private office and had almost no contact with anyone else. But I did wear a yarmulke. To this day I am sure it was anti-Semitic but I could never prove it.
At the same time, I can say that before that incident I was started to wonder if I should be wearing my yarmukle to work or interviews because I was having a hard time finding a permanent job. This incident convinced me. I SHOULD be wearing it. I was not going to let someone like this keep me from demonstrating who I was. I looked at it as a test. To this day I proudly wear it every day.
(31) Barbara Kearney, May 15, 2016 8:39 PM
So VERY sad.......
My late husband was Catholic, as I am. My BELOVED "SO" is Jewish, I was the only Christian, with a LOVELY group of Jewish people who visited Israel, last year. I always felt the warmth of their friendship, and I hope they felt mine. In my heart, and memory, this will rank as one of the most heartwarming times of my life. I would like to add that in my small town HS graduating class, WAY back in the early '50s, the most popular and admired (Class Officers) students were/are Jewish. THIS is as it SHOULD be. (Appreciating people as individuals, rather than judging them by their Faith.)
(30) Anonymous, May 15, 2016 8:16 PM
Yes, this was crass but points to a bigger need - Israel needs to win the PR war
While this student's comment is highly offensive, it reflects something more broadly and scary within our society. Many people believe this or something else equally derogatory about Jews and Israel. It's not just Muslims. It's widespread. Just look at the Anti-Semitic sentiments in the UK Labour party. It wasn't just Muslims saying these things.
We all know how advanced Israel is in technology, medical breakthoughs, etc. We take pride in how "smart" we are in those areas. Well, Israel (and Jews) need to be as smart in winning the PR (Public Relations) war. Somehow we collectively need to change the narrative. I have no suggestions how, other than the starting point is not to just criticize this student, but to understand we need to combat negative beliefs about Jews in the wider world where perceptions are changed by social media and the press.
(29) Barry Lipman, May 15, 2016 8:03 PM
His comment was certainly a racial slur.
Of course he meant it as a racial slur! Had he felt that Tzipi (short for Tzipora) had an odor problem, he could have approached her in private. Why did he say this at a public forum? because he wanted it to be heard by the many attending the forum and the backlash he would receive from word of mouth and the local Harvard News.
He also knew he would not receive any punishment for his cruelty.
This was a typical insult from an uncivilized piece of human trash. He knew better. He was no dummy. He was going to Harvard university. This was done specifically because of the hatred he harbored, being of Arab/Muslim heritage. He was a true Anti-Semite and trouble-maker as well.
(28) john celmanski, May 15, 2016 7:23 PM
typical rubbish
not surprised of open anti semitsm
(27) Anonymous, May 15, 2016 6:47 PM
Harvard is pretty smelly
I wrote Harvard a few times about this incident. Apparently, Havard has been bought by Arab/Muslim and leftist Israel/Jew haters. It's a pity as a university that they have such a high rating. Remember they had/have a quota on Jews admitted
(26) Salem, May 15, 2016 5:52 PM
Shame on you harvard
I remember that one Kuwaiti politics student Amira jumaa born to Palestinian women was kicked out of french college because of her antisemitic posts. I feel ashamed that she had a Kuwaiti nationality and feel ashamed to have a government that is antisemitic. I am pro Israel and try my best to promote and defend jewish people whenever I can but feeling very lonely among those haters that sorround me.
(25) Anonymous, May 15, 2016 5:48 PM
Sad Husam El-Qoulaq's parents failed so miserably
How sad to be Husam El-Qoulaq how embarrassing to realize your parents, spiritual guides and teachers have all fail to teach you basic manners. To not understand what most three year old's have already learned; guests are to be treated with respect. Only if we allow Husam El-Qoulaq to convince us that his parents and every teacher he's ever encountered are holey inept can we believe that he did not understand that the words why are you so smelly are insulting under the best of circumstances. Husam El-Qoulaq's parents, spiritual guides and teachers should all be ashamed of themselves.
(24) gloria, May 15, 2016 5:34 PM
sam who?
I am insulted and I am not even Jewish. I heartily agree with Jonathan - obviously he has not been able to learn anything that would benefit either himself or anyone else - why keep him in school?
(23) Neil Katz, May 15, 2016 4:59 PM
His remark should disqualify him from being admitted to the "Bar" since in most states there is an ethics requirement. He should be very successful defending the downtrodden in countries that are more sensitive to his beliefs. He should check out any of the 57 so-called Muslim countries in the world. I'll buy him a one-way ticket to any place outside the Americas.
Scott, May 15, 2016 8:55 PM
It won't get him debarred though.
The way in which this will be handled is already apparent from the protection of his identity in the first instance, and should tell us about the sort of culture prevailing at Harvard thats makes a person comfortable enough to make a public remark like this in the first place.
Gary Katz, May 15, 2016 9:02 PM
I agree, but...
Just wait; the state ethics committee will defend his actions under political discourse and academic freedom. I think the standard should be whether he would be admitted to the bar if he said the same thing to a black leader.
(22) David, May 15, 2016 4:31 PM
Double Standard
This shows a double standard which needs to end. If the offending student did not have an Arabic language (presumably Moslem) name, he would have been thrown out. The far left, which includes much of Harvard - I went there and saw this every day for four years - allows such behavior from them due to extreme cultural relativism and the perception of Palestinians as victims. We should not allow such disrespect from anyone.
(21) Karl Rose, May 15, 2016 4:19 PM
Words hurt.
We, the people on this planet earth, know that we are all different, separated from each other by race, class, culture, sex, education , religion and color. The people who throw insults, off color remarks, have biases ingrained in them by the socioeconomic conditions that they come from. Just because someone attends a prestigious school does not negate this fact. Simply put, "you can take the kid out of the ghetto, but you can't take the ghetto out of the kid." I would consider the source, flip him the bird and move on.
(20) Charis, May 15, 2016 4:16 PM
Personal comments, honest or not, are not acceptable
Shocking! Whether this was intended as a racial/religious slur or not (and personally I am sure that it was), it is discourteous in the extreme to comment on someone personally - be it physical appearance, dress sense, body odour or whatever. I'm sure this was an unwarranted personal comment, made out of prejudice and spite, but many people cannot help having a strong body odour, no matter how often they shower or what hygiene products they use. It is vile and rude to comment upon it, particularly in public.
The only consolation is that he shamed himself more than his intended victim. Had I been in the audience with him I would have been disgusted at HIM, not at anyone else.
(19) philip mann, May 15, 2016 3:47 PM
vile comments about Jews
What a phoney non-apology. These days, students are being sheltered from anything remotely resembling debate or alternate views of life. Unless, of course, if you happen to be Jewish, Israeli, or say anything remotely resembling support for Israel.
Things are getting very nasty these days. People are looking for somebody to blame, and we Jews are always handy.
(18) Bobby5000, May 15, 2016 3:22 PM
extremely offensive
The notion that some people smelled differently was sometimes used as a justification for segregation and exclusive of blacks from restaurants and other public facilities.
(17) Dvirah, May 15, 2016 3:12 PM
Not Just Anti-Semitism
We should oppose such remarks no matter at whom they are directed. Anti-Semitism aside, it is just plain RUDE. That anyone would defend such a remark on the basis that it is not anti-Semitic proves (1) that they have indeed interpreted its intent as such and (2) they need a crash course in civilized manners!
(16) Rafael, May 15, 2016 2:53 PM
Smelly Jew is a pathetic public statement
This was distasteful and a comment at the lowest level even if someone did smell strangely . You just shouldnt debate or engage in conversation publicly at such a low level .
I was wondering if it is traditional for Harvard to divide itself in ethnic groups such as Jewish , Spanish , Italian , Protestant , Catholic etc organizations . If so the the division of American society is coming apart at the highest institutions of learning . Are Jewish organizations steering our future American leaders to respond to Isreali demands ? This is a vastly more important platform to begin discussion rather than the distraction of this stupid comment .
The Federal Reserve for instance is getting more overtly Israel/ Jewish American . It is the Jewish coalition that has separated and identified itself as a different entity . For Gentiles to identify the Jews as a powerful economic coalition is not Anti Semitic .
Smelly Jew on the other hand is a pathetic public statement that distracts from reasonable questions about Jews as a military and economic power with allegiance to Israel . As a disclaimer I would add that MANY JEWS do not take part in this network .
(15) Dr Bracha Loren, May 15, 2016 2:51 PM
Tzipi Livni at Harvard
I have met many a Harvard graduates and found only a small number as "brilliant." The school needs to expel a student such as the one we are dealing with, whose name, or "question" needn't be mentioned. Expel him for his audacity and brazenness. Shame for any institution that would accept this "character". I sincerely hope no Jewish law firm offers him a position.
(14) Mike, May 15, 2016 2:48 PM
Lack of Civility
Rabbi Blech you make an excellent point. What was said to Tzipi Livini would be rude if it was said to anyone. What is happening to our universities? Guest speakers are often shouted down or attacked by pie wielding students just for having a different opinion. Colleges and universities are supposed to be places where differing ideas are welcomed and where minority opinions can be heard. This is the whole idea of giving tenure to professors. Obviously this law student knew that his comment was offensive? If I were the dean of Harvard Law School I would demand a written apology from this fool. What an embarrassment to Harvard.
(13) Paul Franklin, May 15, 2016 2:31 PM
What an evil young man this anti- Semite is
(12) Thom McCann, May 15, 2016 2:28 PM
Name for protestor
There is a German word for this kind of anti-Semite "Backpfeifengesicht": A face badly in need of a fist.
And the sooner the better.
Including Harvard professors who did not condemn this swine!
(11) Nancy, May 15, 2016 2:20 PM
Perhaps this young man is a sociopath
The non apology was nothing more than damage control. This young man wants to eventually get a job with a prestigious law firm and make a lot of money. If a partner reads about what was said, the student most likely would not even get an interview with a top law firm. The student showed no insight into his inappropriate and cruel remark, and has no remorse for his egregious behavior.
(10) Harold Litwin, May 15, 2016 2:15 PM
Years ago, maybe 10, a similar situation occurred at the University of Miami where the administration stated that they could not interfere with the independent students organizations. Like Hell they couldn't. One brave Jewish donor cancelled his Two million dollar donation to the University until this disgusting act by the students was corrected.
(9) Sister M. Michele S.C.M.C., May 15, 2016 2:13 PM
Tolerating Intolerance?
Such rude comments are merely the "tip of the iceberg". AS we've witnessed in the past, hatred begins by ignorant and unjust thinking, which pours over into ignorant, vicious words, and soon that is not enough and the attacks grow violent and the cancer has already metastasized. Hatred and ignorance knows no boundaries. If we tolerate this behavior in our institutions of learning-(Can this be called learning? Learning what?)- this allowance of hatred breeding will put all of us into danger of being victims at some point. Our Judeo/Christian values don't allow for this kind of behavior. Each person, each institution must be fearless enough to stand against it now. One cannot wait for someone else or for some other time. Now is the time; and it is I who am called to stand.
(8) Anonymous, May 15, 2016 1:58 PM
Well said and what a disgrace that action was! Thanks for posting and making me aware of this!
(7) Sergio Larrain, May 15, 2016 1:47 PM
Smelly jews and Harvard,
As a very minimum reaction I would have expelled the offender from the Conference.
(6) Larry, May 15, 2016 1:45 PM
What toilet did these eleven Leftist Jews crawl out of. How can they condone a blatant anti-semitic remark and then try to justify it. Many Jews have short memories. If you don't combat anti-semitism at the source you will surely succumb to it. There is a hostile world out there that would like to see an end to Israel and the Jews. As Jews we should not be helping these low-lifes succeed.
(5) Anonymous, May 15, 2016 1:26 PM
She smells fishy/untrustworthy is how it may be translated but still stinks
given the negative perceptions of Israel and their supporters on many campus' today it's sad but no surprise that MK Livno would be personally disrespected.
Sharon, May 15, 2016 2:21 PM
respect
It's also disrespectful to get MK, Ms. Livni's name wrong.
(4) Steve Meitzler, May 15, 2016 1:25 PM
The lack of apologies in Israel
I have been "in the land" now for nearly 10 weeks, during which time I have heard "Welcome to Israel," instead of an apology for a number of inappropriate behaviors. Seemingly, people in Israel don't apologize, they take inappropriate behavior in stride and continue on like as if this was normal behavior.
(3) Valerie-Jael, May 15, 2016 1:25 PM
Shame on them!
I wonder how they all got to an elite university? Shame on Husam and all who support him. Valerie-Jael
Anonymous, May 15, 2016 2:23 PM
How
political correctness
(2) Joyce, May 15, 2016 12:36 PM
Thank you Rabb Blech for your continued eloquence
(1) Alan S., May 15, 2016 10:46 AM
No longer is there common courtesy in most of the world today.
The fact that an Arab said it and 11 Jewish students supported him is not surprising at all. Just think of the explosion at Harvard if a Jewish student said this at an Arab sponsored forum.
My junior high school ran its student elections with more propriety than the way the major Republican President candidate has during his current campaign. This candidate has forgotten that a person can be civil and not politically correct at the same time if he or she chooses.
One can still find common courtesy in the world today. Sadly however, it is getting harder and harder to find. In today's world of ultra-sensitive people, even speaking ones mind politely and civility can offend people if the idea within bothers them.
Speaking ones mind can be done without offering personal condemnations, which is how many in the world operate. The current Republican Presidential candidate believes in insults instead of ideas to speak his mind. This is too bad because he has shown that he can speak smartly without speaking nastily.
Many of the comments on this forum, and other forums like this, read by like minded people, unfortunately often contain comments that belittle the writer for offering up their opinions. I have often written on this forum, and other forums like this, about the need to police comments that contain ad hominem attacks on the commenter, instead of comments that contain useful ideas.