Assemblyman Avi Schnall (D-30) has sent a formal letter to Rutgers University President Jonathan Holloway and the Board of Governors expressing his deep concern and disappointment over the selection of comedian Ramy Youssef — a figure widely known for his anti-Israel views — as the commencement speaker for Rutgers-Newark’s 2025 graduation ceremony.

In the letter, Assemblyman Schnall warns that choosing a polarizing figure at a time of heightened antisemitism on college campuses risks alienating Jewish and Israeli students, and betrays the university’s stated commitment to unity and inclusion.

“Graduation should be a moment of celebration, not division,” Assemblyman Schnall said. “By inviting a commencement speaker whose political positions are deeply hurtful to Jewish and Israeli students, Rutgers is sending the wrong message — that some identities and experiences matter less. I could not remain silent.”

Assemblyman Schnall stressed that his letter is not about silencing differing viewpoints, but about protecting every student’s right to feel safe, respected, and welcome.

“Every student, no matter their race, religion, or nationality, deserves to stand proudly at graduation without feeling marginalized or unsafe,” Schnall said. “Leadership demands more than slogans. It demands action — especially when dealing with vulnerable student populations facing rising hate.”

Assemblyman Schnall pointed to serious allegations of antisemitism on Rutgers campuses in the wake of Hamas’s October 7th massacre as proof that universities – and particularly Rutgers – must act with greater caution and care when making decisions that impact campus climate.

“Jewish students at Rutgers deserve better,” Schnall said. “They deserve a university that stands with them, not one that sidelines them during one of the most important milestones of their lives. Rutgers has an opportunity to correct this wrong. I hope they will.”