Pitzer College Ends Study Abroad Program with Haifa University Amid BDS Pressure
Pitzer College Ends Study Abroad Program with University of Haifa
- Pitzer College in California has decided to terminate its study abroad program with the University of Haifa, a move seen as a significant development for the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Suspension Linked to Core Values of Social Responsibility
- A coalition of students and faculty, Suspend Pitzer Haifa, revealed the decision was based on the college's commitment to "social responsibility" and "intercultural understanding," finding the partnership with Haifa University incongruent with these values.
Six-Year Campaign Advocates for Suspension of Israeli University Ties
- The decision followed a six-year campaign at Pitzer College, with activists citing Israeli universities' complicity in military occupation and apartheid as reasons to suspend relations.
College Denies Boycott Link but Acknowledges Program Closure
- While the college denies the closure was due to an academic boycott, it admits the program, along with others, was removed for not meeting specific criteria in line with college principles.
Critics Attribute Decision to Activist Pressure
- Critics argue the decision was driven by sustained pressure from student activists, noting internal communications that indicated the Haifa program was targeted for its perceived misalignment with the college’s values.
Low Enrollment and Community Support Factor into Program’s Closure
- The Haifa program faced closure due to low enrollment numbers and significant community support for its removal, as revealed by internal discussions.
SJP Highlights Campaign Strategies Against Israeli University Ties
- Anna Babboni from Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) emphasized the multifaceted campaign, including alumni pledges to withhold donations and faculty statements supporting Palestinian students.
Haifa University Scrutinized for Military Ties and Suppression of Palestinian Views
- The move reflects broader efforts to boycott academic institutions linked to the Israeli occupation, with Haifa University criticized for its connections to the Israeli military.
Student Activists Plan Resolution to Formalize Academic Boycott
- Despite the program's closure, activists plan to present a resolution to the college council to formalize the boycott and prevent future ties with Israeli universities.
- Activists view their success as setting a precedent for other U.S. institutions to hold Israeli universities accountable for alleged injustices against Palestinians.