Brooklyn College Provost Accused Of Anti-Semitic Behavior, Racial Bias
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Assemblyman Dov Hikind is calling for an independent investigation into accusations of anti-Semitism and racial bias at Brooklyn College.
Hikind said some high-level staff members claim despite recommendations from search committees, Provost William Tramontano prevented observant Jewish women from being hired as teachers and other Orthodox Jews were denied promotions because of their religion.
"In one particular case, a person who was trying to get a job, her name was Miriam, was approved by the committee," Hikind said. "His answer [Tramontano] was, 'We already have one Miriam,' as if to say, 'We already have Jews.'"
Hikind said the alleged actions by the provost are "unconscionable" and "unacceptable."
"We're not going to rest until there is action taken," Hikind said. "Send Tramontano somewhere else; he doesn't belong at Brooklyn College, as far as I'm concerned he doesn't belong at any university."
A school spokesman defended its hiring, promotion and tenure practices saying each decision was made "for rational and appropriate reasons.''
The spokesman told the Associated Press the discrimination allegations are based on erroneous information and are without merit.
"What are we teaching our students? What are we telling them when you can insult and degrade people who happen to be Jewish," Hikind said.
He believes there is documentation that shows "the prejudices of this provost very clearly" and will uncover corruption at the school.
Sound off on this story in the comments section below...
