Students protesting the war in Gaza have faced opposition from powerful figures in the financial world, leading to increased tensions on college campuses across the United States. Despite this, student protests have persisted and gained momentum, culminating in intensified demonstrations before the summer break.
One prominent Wall Street law firm, Sullivan & Cromwell, known for its prestigious clientele such as Goldman Sachs and Amazon, has taken a direct stance against protesters. The 145-year-old firm is now considering participation in anti-Israel protests as a potential disqualifying factor for job applicants.
Sullivan & Cromwell, in collaboration with a background check company, is closely examining students’ involvement in pro-Palestinian groups, social media activity, and participation in protests. The firm is specifically looking for instances of antisemitism and statements deemed offensive to the Jewish community. Joseph C. Shenker, a key figure at Sullivan & Cromwell, emphasized the importance of accountability, stating that protesters could be held responsible for the actions of others around them.
Even if candidates themselves did not engage in problematic behavior, their association with a protest where such behavior occurred could impact their candidacy. According to Mr. Shenker, failure to address or condemn offensive conduct within a protest indicates a tolerance for a “mob mentality.” While Sullivan & Cromwell did not disclose whether candidates had been rejected under this policy, the firm remains steadfast in its stance.
Mr. Shenker expressed concern over the transformation of outrage against events in Gaza into racist antisemitism, highlighting the complexities of navigating sensitive issues within the realm of protests and professional settings.
