2 Jewish students attacked on DePaul campus

Two Jewish students were attacked on DePaul University’s campus on Wednesday after showing visible signs of supporting Israel, according to the school’s president. 

President Robert Manuel released a statement to the community Wednesday evening announcing the two students were attacked in front of the Student Center on the Lincoln Park Campus. 

Two masked individuals ran up to the students and punched them. The students were injured but declined to receive medical treatment, Manuel said. 

“We recognize that for a significant portion of our Jewish community, Israel is a core part of their Jewish identity. Those students — and every student — should feel safe on our university campus,” the statement reads.  

The Chicago Police Department is investigating the attack and looking to determine “whether to classify it as a hate crime that targeted our students because of their Jewish identity.” 

“We are outraged that this occurred on our campus. It is completely unacceptable and a violation of DePaul’s values to uphold and care for the dignity of every individual,” Manuel said.

Multiple organizations have reported hate crimes against Jewish individuals have spoked significantly since last year's Oct. 7 Hamas attack against Israel and the ensuing war in Gaza.