I was taken aback by the recent open letter to UF President Bernie Machen in this past week’s Alligator. In it, the author condemns Machen’s proclamation, "I believe the entire University of Florida community holds academic freedom to be a cherished principle that advances the interests of society," and challenges our president to use boycotts as the model for academic integrity.
A discussion focused on divestment is counterproductive. It wrongly assumes that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a black and white issue and ignores the true complexity of the situation.
By embracing the nuances, we can move toward constructive engagement, peaceful solutions and an atmosphere of economic and political cooperation.
This is the approach currently outlined by the road map to peace plan, which encourages the normalization of relations between Israel and the Arab states, including trade links. Additionally, Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian authority’s recognized leader, has said he does not ask anyone to boycott Israel.
I am proud to be part of The Gator Nation because of Machen’s decision to ensure that UF always cherishes academic freedom holding to the principles of democracy treasured by America and Israel.
I am proud to stand with a student body whose Senate reinforced the president’s message last April by voting to respect academic freedom and invest in peace on this campus. And I am proud to be part of this community confirming the words of our motto, "the welfare of the state depends upon the morals of its citizens."
Moving forward, our role must be to work together toward solutions for a conflict that has torn Israelis and Palestinians apart for centuries.
My commitment is to uphold Machen’s words by building bridges that foster civil dialogue in an effort to understand one another, as well as to encourage investment and negotiation for shared future prosperity so that everyone may live side by side in peace and security.
Adam Grossman
CEO and Rabbi at the UF Hillel
[A version of this story ran on page 7 on 9/5/2014 under the headline "Last week’s open letter to President Bernie Machen wrongfully condemns proclamation"]
