American University is well known for its inclusion and efforts to unify students from a bevy of diverse backgrounds. From athletics to political speakers to the Westboro Baptist Church Counter Demonstration, the AU community comes together to support our entire community. While we each have our own opinions, our campus renowned for our civility and ability to engage in an open dialogue.
In this light, the students of American University Students for Israel (AUSFI) do not feel it is appropriate to engage in ATV’s upcoming special program focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The format of this program, asking student leaders their opinions, only creates the potential for a hostile environment.
AUSFI is the umbrella student organization for Israel life on campus, focusing on educating students on the culture and politics of Israeli society. AUSFI embraces the same values as the AU community; we believe in allowing for an open dialogue in a safe and welcoming environment. Unfortunately, ATV’s proposed program does not provide a welcoming and educational environment in which to engage. We encourage students to remain the well-read and educated leaders for which we are constantly singled out. To outline our position in one simple line: We support direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority, without preconditions, with final status compromises that result in peace for both parties living together in harmony.
Nothing productive would come of a debate between two student organizations with differing opinions. It is unfair to pit students against each other, especially about a subject many find so personal. At the end of the day, it is up to the leaders of their respective countries to come to a conclusion. What happens within the upcoming weeks regarding Israel and Palestine will certainly be matters of discussion, but not debate.
Jonathan Lipton
Vice President of AU Students for Israel
SPA 2014
Micah Deligdish
Political Director of AU Students for Israel
SOC 2013
