News Summary
Ramsi Woodcock, a law professor at the University of Kentucky, is under investigation for circulating a petition calling for the destruction of Israel. The university has removed him from teaching duties amid the review, which includes outside legal counsel. University President Eli Capilouto condemned the petition, labeling the views expressed as potentially antisemitic, while rising antisemitism incidents in Kentucky prompted the formation of an Antisemitism Task Force. The complex issues surrounding academic freedom, hate speech, and community safety are now at the forefront of the university’s response.
Lexington, Kentucky – A University of Kentucky law professor, Ramsi Woodcock, is currently facing an investigation after circulating a petition that calls for the destruction of Israel. The university has removed Woodcock from his teaching responsibilities while the situation is being reviewed. Woodcock is affiliated with a website titled the “Antizionist Legal Studies Movement,” from which the controversial petition has emerged.
The petition demands that “every country in the world make war on Israel immediately until Israel has submitted permanently and unconditionally to the government of Palestine.” As of now, Woodcock’s signature is the only one displayed on the petition, indicating that he was the sole individual who has actively endorsed such a call for military action. Additionally, the website linked to Woodcock promotes an event named “The Inaugural Ending Israel Conference,” set to take place in May 2026.
In response to the gravity of the situation, the University of Kentucky has initiated a review process, which includes the involvement of outside legal counsel, and has requested “accelerated findings” regarding the matter. University President Eli Capilouto has publicly condemned the petition, emphasizing that any call for violence is not endorsed by the institution and that such views do not align with the university’s values. Capilouto has suggested that Woodcock’s statements may be interpreted as antisemitic and has highlighted the university’s responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of its community.
The context of this investigation comes amid a notable rise in antisemitism incidents reported in Kentucky, which have more than doubled from 2022 to 2024. In response to this troubling trend, the state has established an Antisemitism Task Force, formed in 2023, to review and address the issues of antisemitism across Kentucky. Earlier this year, a joint resolution was passed, directing higher education institutions in the state to take active measures to combat antisemitism.
Members of the Kentucky-Israel Caucus have expressed support for the university’s response to the situation, affirming that the institution is taking the necessary steps in addressing these concerning views. Senator Amanda Mays Bledsoe, who has visited Israel previously, stressed that no student should feel targeted or unsafe based on their faith, reinforcing the message of inclusivity and safety within academic spaces.
It is also important to note that against this backdrop, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies have been outlawed in Kentucky, which has introduced complications for many higher education initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity. All eight public universities along with the Kentucky Community and Technical College System have stated their compliance with House Bill 4, which mandates dismantling DEI initiatives.
The initial report regarding Ramsi Woodcock’s petition and subsequent investigation was published on July 18, 2025, drawing attention to both the academic and social implications of such rhetoric in a university environment. As investigations continue, the University of Kentucky is faced with navigating complex issues of academic freedom, hate speech, and community safety in today’s charged sociopolitical landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy Appoints New CEC Leader
Controversies Surround Fayette County Schools’ New Academic Year
Professor Mark Kightlinger Passes Away at University of Kentucky
Tragic Shooting at Richmond Road Baptist Church in Lexington
University Professor Investigated for Antisemitic Petition
Mark Kightlinger, Esteemed Law Professor, Passes Away
Kentucky Attorney General Targets Lexington Blue Bankruptcy
Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding Strike Kentucky
University of Kentucky Settles Lawsuits with Professor
Fayette County Public Schools Announces Critical Dates
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Law Professor Investigation
- WKYT: Lexington Leaders Respond to Iran Conflict
- Fox56: Pikeville Man’s Trip to Israel Cut Short
- Kentucky Lantern: Insights on Violence and Freedom
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Antisemitism
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
