A teacher in San Diego, California, was dismissed after posting an antisemitic video that claimed “Israelis steal kidneys, livers, and eyes,” N12 reported on Saturday.
Background
The educator, identified as Nasreen Atassi, was a special‑education teacher employed by the San Diego Unified School District. In the video she alleged that Israel “stole the protests, like they always steal from people – including body parts such as kidneys, livers, and eyes,” linking the claim to American Jews’ support for Iranian demonstrations in the United States.
Community Response
Members of the local Jewish community, organized through the House of Israel – Balboa Park, actively documented the incident. Dr. Halevi Feldman, a board member, said the group has an individual who records antisemitic acts and forwards them to “the relevant authorities.” By sharing the video online, responding to comments, tagging officials and filing complaints with the school district, the community’s efforts “were mostly responsible for getting Atassi punished,” Feldman told N12.
According to Feldman, Atassi was removed from the district “less than a day from the time the video was shared online,” with “additional steps…taken behind the scenes.” A local Israeli added, “There’s no chance we would allow such a person to enter classrooms.”
Implications
The rapid dismissal highlights how community advocacy can influence employment decisions in public schools, especially when allegations involve hate speech. The district’s swift action suggests a heightened sensitivity to antisemitic content and a willingness to act quickly to protect students and maintain an inclusive educational environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the teacher and what did she say?
The teacher was Nasreen Atassi, a special‑education instructor. She posted a video claiming that Israel steals body parts such as kidneys, livers, and eyes.
How quickly was she removed from her position?
Atassi was removed from the San Diego Unified School District less than a day after the video was posted online, with additional steps taken behind the scenes.
What role did the Jewish community play in the termination?
The House of Israel – Balboa Park organized a response that included documenting the incident, sharing it online, tagging authorities and submitting complaints to the school district, which Feldman said was “mostly responsible” for the firing decision.
What do you consider about the balance between free speech and protecting students from hate speech?
