Gregory Brown, a history professor at UNLV, is channeling his fear and concern over the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks in Israel into constructive initiatives aimed at fostering a greater understanding of Jewish identity on campus.
As a Jewish American, Brown has experienced firsthand the rising anxieties surrounding antisemitism that surged following the attacks. In the past two years, he has worked diligently to create opportunities for dialogue and education about the Jewish diaspora among students and faculty.
One key development has been the formation of the UNLV Jewish Faculty and Staff Affinity Group, along with the Task Force on Jewish Identity and Inclusion. These groups aim to address the specific concerns of UNLV’s Jewish community and enhance educational programming about Jewish culture and identity.
Brown, who has taught at UNLV for 28 years, recalls past efforts to establish similar Jewish affinity groups that never materialized due to a lack of urgency. However, the current environment has motivated faculty and staff, and the affinity group now boasts nearly 50 members.
“There has just not been a lot of exposure or thought about Jewish identity by a lot of people on this campus,” Brown remarked.
The group’s primary objective is to promote understanding and acceptance of Jewish identity within the university community.
Rob Levrant, the chair of the affinity group, highlighted the formation of the group in 2024 as a response to the growing need for a supportive community following the attacks. Since its inception, the group has organized social gatherings, including a Hanukkah party, and hosted discussion panels to engage the broader community.
“Even though there has long been a Jewish presence at UNLV, we didn’t necessarily connect with one another,” Levrant noted.
As UNLV navigates the complexities of its response to events surrounding the Oct. 7 attacks, it faces scrutiny, evident from a lawsuit filed in May 2024 by a Jewish student alleging failure by the institution to address antisemitic discrimination.
Additionally, the Department of Justice announced an investigation into the university’s handling of antisemitism on campus, signifying increasing oversight in this area.
Despite these challenges, the Anti-Defamation League awarded UNLV a B grade in its 2025 “Campus Antisemitism Report Card,” acknowledging the progress made through the establishment of the Jewish faculty and staff group and the advisory council focused on combating antisemitism. Brown co-chairs this advisory council, which aims to recommend improvements to senior administrators regarding the campus climate for Jewish students.
Among the recommendations proposed have been heightened awareness of the university’s religious observance policy and the expansion of kosher dining options, reflecting a commitment to enhancing Jewish life on campus.
As both the Jewish Faculty and Staff Affinity Group and the Task Force on Jewish Identity and Inclusion continue their advocacy, Brown acknowledges the unpredictability of the political landscape but remains hopeful about the university’s commitment to their mission.
“My hope is that the presence of Jewish curriculum and Jewish life at UNLV is part of that rich and vibrant Jewish culture that we have here in Las Vegas,” he stated.
He envisions these initiatives not only benefiting Jewish students but also opening doors for the entire community to engage with and learn about Jewish culture.
Ultimately, Brown believes that educational institutions like UNLV should serve as platforms for understanding, dialogue, and community connection in an increasingly complex world.
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