Full Breakdown
Investigation Finds Antisemitic Harassment at City College of San Francisco
4/1/2026, 2:35:44 AM
Core Findings of Harassment
An independent investigation has determined that remarks made by Maria Salazar-Colon, president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1021 at City College of San Francisco (CCSF), constituted unlawful harassment against Professor Abigail Bornstein, a Jewish faculty member. During a public meeting on May 29, 2025, Salazar-Colon referred to Bornstein as a “colonizer” and used derogatory language, which the investigation concluded was rooted in antisemitism. The findings suggest that such language can be interpreted as harassment based on Jewish identity, setting a significant precedent for similar cases.
Context of the Incident
The incident occurred during a board meeting where Bornstein criticized budget proposals that would reduce full-time faculty positions and increase part-time roles. Her comments prompted Salazar-Colon’s outburst, which included personal attacks and derogatory remarks about Bornstein's intelligence. Following the incident, Bornstein reported feeling unsafe and ceased attending campus, leading to her filing a complaint with CCSF authorities.
Official Responses and Actions
The investigation, conducted by a third-party entity, confirmed that Salazar-Colon’s comments violated CCSF’s policies against discrimination and harassment. The findings were supported by evidence indicating that the term “colonizer,” in this context, was an attack on Bornstein’s Jewish identity. Following the investigation, CCSF indicated plans for disciplinary action against Salazar-Colon, although specifics were not disclosed.
Bornstein expressed gratitude for the investigation's outcome, stating, “I am grateful that the College took my complaint seriously... No Jewish faculty member, employee, or student should have to endure language, intimidation, or threats rooted in antisemitism.”
Criticism and Opposition
Salazar-Colon has appealed the investigation's findings, claiming that her remarks were not antisemitic but rather part of union activity. In a response to media inquiries, she stated, “NO COMMENT! I have boundaries, privacy and safety concerns! DO NOT EVER CONTACT ME AGAIN.” Critics argue that her comments should not be protected under the guise of union activity, emphasizing that harassment based on identity is unacceptable in any context.
Broader Implications
Legal experts and advocates have highlighted the significance of this ruling, suggesting it may encourage other victims of antisemitism to come forward. Deedee Bitran, a lawyer with StandWithUs, remarked that the decision illustrates that targeting individuals based on their Jewish identity is not permissible, regardless of the context. Bornstein hopes this incident will lead to enhanced training and policy updates at CCSF to prevent future occurrences of antisemitism.
What's Next
As Salazar-Colon’s appeal remains pending, the CCSF board has 45 days to respond. If no action is taken, the findings will be automatically approved, solidifying the investigation's conclusions. Bornstein advocates for continued vigilance against antisemitism and encourages others to report similar incidents, emphasizing the importance of independent investigations in such cases.
