University professors express concern over Israeli military’s destructive actions
University of Michigan anti-Israel protesters in Jan. 2023
Hundreds of faculty members at the University of Michigan have come together to address the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. In a statement, they attribute the loss of innocent lives in Israel to the Israeli state and its “structural apartheid.” The statement, which can be found here, emphasizes the need to recognize and mourn all victims of this war.
At least 738 professors, university staff members, and graduate students have signed this statement, reflecting a growing trend among top U.S. universities to condemn Israel and excuse Hamas’s terror attacks. Similar sentiments have been expressed by student groups at Harvard and University of Michigan law students.
In response to the statement, the University of Michigan released a statement expressing condolences for the lives lost on both sides of the conflict.
However, the professors’ statement criticizes the university’s president, Santa Ono, for not mentioning Palestine or Palestinians in his message and for failing to condemn past Israeli violence. They argue that this framing disregards the impact of the Israeli military’s actions on the civilian population in Gaza, including University of Michigan students, faculty, and staff.
Among the notable signatories of the statement are history professor Juan Cole, associate gender studies professor Charlotte Karem Albrecht, theater professor Ashley Lucas, associate gender studies professor Victor Mendoza, musicology professor Amy Stillman, and lecturer Matthew Stiffler. Some of these signatories have previously expressed anti-Israel sentiments.
It is worth noting that students at the University of Michigan have also been involved in anti-Israel activism, with the student government accusing Israel of “settler-colonialism, ethnic cleansing, and apartheid,” and student groups protesting Vice President Kamala Harris’s visit by calling for the destruction of Israel.
What steps does the University of Michigan faculty members’ statement suggest for the international community, governments, organizations, and individuals to take in response to the actions of the Israeli military
Theid regime.” The professors express their concern over the Israeli military’s actions, which they view as destructive and unjustifiable.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine has resulted in the loss of numerous innocent lives and extensive destruction of infrastructure in the region. The faculty members at the University of Michigan argue that the Israeli military’s tactics and strategies have exacerbated the suffering of Palestinians and have had a detrimental impact on the peace process. They condemn the excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests, and the blockade of essential supplies to Gaza.
The faculty members also express their support for the Palestinian people and their right to self-determination. They emphasize the need for a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, based on respect for international law and human rights. According to the professors, the continuation of the conflict not only hampers the prospects for peace but also undermines the principles of justice and equality.
This statement from the University of Michigan faculty members follows a wave of protests and demonstrations on campuses across the United States. Students and faculty members have been voicing their concern over the Israeli military’s actions and their impact on the Palestinian people. These demonstrations reflect a growing sentiment among academics and activists that the Israeli government should be held accountable for its actions and that international pressure should be exerted for a peaceful resolution.
It is important to note that this statement does not represent the views of the entire University of Michigan faculty. There are differing opinions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within the academic community, as is the case in many universities worldwide. However, the fact that hundreds of faculty members have come together to express their concern suggests a significant level of discontent with the Israeli military’s actions.
The University of Michigan faculty members urge the international community, including governments, organizations, and individuals, to take a stand against the destructive actions of the Israeli military. They call for a halt to the violence and urge both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue towards a peaceful resolution. They also emphasize the importance of safeguarding academic freedom and fostering an environment that promotes critical thinking and the exchange of ideas.
As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to unfold, it is crucial for the voices of academics and intellectuals to be heard. Their insights and perspectives contribute to a broader understanding of the complexities of the conflict and can help shape a more inclusive and just future for all parties involved.
In conclusion, the University of Michigan faculty members’ statement highlights their concern over the Israeli military’s destructive actions and the loss of innocent lives in the ongoing conflict. It reflects a growing sentiment among academics and activists who believe in holding the Israeli government accountable and seeking a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on respect for international law and human rights.
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