Statement on Antisemitic Protest at the University of Michigan

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 17, 2023

Contact: Avi D. Gordon, Executive Director Alums for Campus Fairness

917-512-4585, [email protected]

 

Alums for Campus Fairness’ University of Michigan Chapter (ACF-Michigan) is appalled to learn about the Pro-Palestinian protest which occurred this week on the University of Michigan campus in response to an impending visit by U. S. Vice President Kamala Harris. Vice President Harris was there to speak on climate policy and student activism, however, protesters made their stance known regarding the U. S.’s policy on the state of Israel.  

The on-campus protest was inspired by Pro-Palestinian protests, which took place from the late ’80s through the early 2000s. During this disturbing, antisemitic protest, protesters were seen chanting “Intifada, Intifada! Long live the Intifada”.

As they marched, they shouted into bullhorns an infamous anti-Israel call-to-arms: “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!” These actions are both shocking and horrifying to Jews across the nation, and especially to those who have attended and are currently enrolled at the University of Michigan. 

It is long past due that the University of Michigan’s President Santa Ono and the administration takes decisive and immediate action against such deeply appalling antisemitic protests and actions. 

As the unified alumni voice against antisemitism, we hope that the University of Michigan will work diligently to counter antisemitism on campus.

About ACF: Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF) leverages the unique power of alumni to combat antisemitism on college campuses. ACF helps organize and cultivate alumni chapters for colleges and universities across the country, equipping members with tools, tactics, and training to proactively engage with administrators. Learn more at www.campusfairness.org.