NYSID President David Sprouls Responds to Rise in Anti-Semitic Threats & Violence

Dear NYSID Community,

New York City’s strength comes from its diversity—the layers of history and design, the amazingly creative people who choose to be here, and perhaps mostly importantly the cultures that live side by side. It’s this diversity that makes NYSID thrive as a place of learning.

Last week, the New York Times article “U.S. Faces Outbreak of Anti-Semitic Threats and Violence” reported on the recent spike in incidents of anti-Semitism in the United States, as well as underscored the fact that there has been a longer-term trend in violent anti-Semitic incidents since 2017, including right here in New York City. As the home to the second largest Jewish population in the world, it’s disturbing to read testimonials from citizens questioning if this is still the place for them. New Yorkers know that our city would be a vastly different, lesser place had it not been for the contributions of our Jewish families, friends, neighbors and colleagues. Any hate crimes and acts of intimidation against us, our friends and colleagues significantly undermine the strength of our community.

Cultural discrimination is a direct threat to our values as an institution. Unfortunately, these current events compel me to speak out and restate, yet again, that the New York School of Interior Design cannot--will not--tolerate the isolation of any group. We must continue to educate ourselves and others on how to identify, diffuse, reject and protect against discrimination in all its forms. It is unacceptable to me that any member of our community would experience anything less than encouragement to take pride in who they are – their background, race, culture, identity, etc... what they believe, and where they want to take their lives and dreams. Every single piece of work developed at NYSID, from Day 1 to senior thesis is unique and important because of the life, experience, influences that designer brought to the table. We need each and every one of you feel empowered to make your impact on the world.

Students experiencing anxiety, fear, depression, or a need to voice their feelings re: their personal experiences should reach out to Dr. Penni Morganstein at our Counseling Center or their student advisors. Anyone experiencing or witnessing hate-based activity/speech on or around our campuses should immediately call 911 and then reach out to the closest NYSID personnel as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

David