Senate Republicans are currently conducting an inquiry into a $143,000 fellowship granted by the George Soros-backed Open Society Foundation to Professor Sahar Aziz, who serves as the director of Rutgers University’s Center for Security, Race, and Rights. The Republicans allege that Aziz has disseminated what they describe as “vile antisemitic propaganda.”
In a letter issued last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee expressed concern about the activities of the center, its alleged promotion of individuals sympathetic to terrorists, and its platforming of radical ideologies. They cited the committee’s longstanding work on legislation aimed at combating terrorism and providing compensation to its victims, such as the Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act passed in 2016. The committee sees it as appropriate to examine the financial backing of groups that seek to legitimize violence and provide platforms for terrorist sympathizers, especially given recent global events.
The committee is particularly interested in determining whether U.S. taxpayer funds support the center’s operations. Rutgers University faced criticism last year after equating the condemnation of Hamas to attempts to overlook decades of colonial violence and its consequences.
Senator Ted Cruz of Texas expressed his lack of surprise at the center’s director receiving funding from what he referred to as “George Soros’s web of dark money.” He and his colleagues are focused on scrutinizing the center’s funding sources and its alleged promotion of antisemitic content.
In response, the Open Society Foundation defended its mission, stating that it is committed to advancing racial justice and combating antisemitism and anti-Muslim hate. The foundation asserted its pride in supporting individuals working to enhance justice and opportunity for historically marginalized communities through innovative projects and research.
