Michael Chikindas, a professor in Rutgers University’s Department of Food Science, drew national outrage after posting a series of antisemitic and anti-Israel rants on his Facebook page in May 2017. His comments included crude stereotypes, conspiracy theories, and openly hateful slurs targeting Jews.
Antisemitic and Anti-Israel Social Media Posts
Throughout May 2017, Chikindas used his Facebook account to share inflammatory and antisemitic content:
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May 29, 2017: Shared an article and wrote, “No help from international fat Jewish pockets – I mean unconditional help…”
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May 28, 2017: Posted a caricature of a Jew being carried by U.S. soldiers, with the caption mocking Jews as “God’s chosen people.” The same day, he ranted against “Orthodox Judaism Zionist racist advertisement” and shared a graphic reading: “Do not force me to love the so-called ‘Chosen’ and I will not tell you where you have to go.”
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May 25, 2017: Shared an “End AIPAC” meme claiming Jews use the “Anti-Semitism Card” as a “Get out of Jail Free” excuse.
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May 21, 2017: Shared a post from “Illuminati Exposed” and wrote: “These Jewish motherfkers do not control me. They can go and fk each other in their fat arses…”
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May 14, 2017: Posted an image depicting Jews as responsible for “Sex Trafficking,” “Pornography,” “Internet Spying,” and “Wars for Israel.” That same day he shared another caricature of a Jew stealing money from children, claiming it was for “10 billion to Israel.”
Rutgers’ Response
After the posts surfaced, Rutgers placed Chikindas under investigation. Spokesman Neal Buccino condemned the content, calling it “antithetical to our university’s principles and values of respect for people of all backgrounds, including our large and vibrant Jewish community.”
On December 8, 2017, Rutgers announced disciplinary measures: Chikindas was barred from teaching required courses, stripped of administrative duties, and required to undergo sensitivity training.
Continued Anti-Israel Activity
Despite his history of hateful posts, Chikindas continued to involve himself in anti-Israel activism. In May 2021, he signed a Rutgers faculty letter condemning Israel’s “military assault on Palestinians across all regions.”
Current Status
As of June 2025, Chikindas remains listed on Rutgers’ website as a professor in microbiology and head of the Health Promoting Naturals Laboratory.
Conclusion
Michael Chikindas has a long record of antisemitic rhetoric, blending classic antisemitic conspiracy theories with modern anti-Israel propaganda. His presence as a faculty member at Rutgers raises serious concerns for Jewish students, who must contend with an instructor who has publicly demeaned, caricatured, and vilified their community.
