The district plans to collaborate with BAJC, the Anti-Defamation League, and the Jewish Community Relations Council to address harm, promote unity, and support anti-hate education.

This marks Branham’s second antisemitism-related controversy this year, following a state finding of biased content in an ethnic studies course that discriminated against Jewish students.

A social media image and caption featuring the act circulated online and drew widespread reaction before being removed from Instagram.

Branham High School will implement multiple educational approaches and seek partnerships with Jewish and civil-rights groups to provide resources and repair harm.

The California Department of Education will provide statewide resources as investigations proceed, with state officials condemning the use of hate symbols on campus.

The incident is being referred to the San José Police Department, with cooperation from the district and advocacy groups to address fear, safety, and antisemitism concerns.

Authorities are treating the case as a hate crime with an investigation focused on its impact on Jewish students and the broader community.

Branham High School and local leaders condemned the incident as disturbing and unacceptable antisemitism, stressing the harms of hate symbols and the need for Holocaust education and broader historical context.

Community leaders, including BAJC spokespeople, called the act shocking and heartbreaking, underscoring the impact on Jewish students and the wider community and urging increased anti-hate education.

The incident occurred at Branham High School, where a group formed a symbol with their bodies; the photo circulated on social media shortly after the event.

State and district context include California's April actions to boost anti-bias training and create an Office of Civil Rights, with Branham situated in the Campbell Union High School District near Silicon Valley.

Eight Branham students were identified, with names protected under federal privacy laws; they are reportedly taking accountability, though disciplinary actions have not been disclosed.