This article was submitted to The Drew Acorn by Students for Justice in Palestine. This article contains perspectives and opinions of Students for Justice in Palestine.
Drew University’s Students for Justice in Palestine conducted a letter delivery ceremony on Feb. 2, 2024, memorializing the moment they hand-delivered a letter to President Hilary Link. The letter expressed deep concern about the ongoing crisis in Gaza, urging the university to take a stand for justice and make a positive impact on the global stage.
In their letter, the group commended Link’s leadership, acknowledging the challenges posed by advocating for Palestine in a world dominated by a Zionist narrative. They emphasized the need for academic freedom and the university’s role in fostering an environment where diverse perspectives can coexist.
During the ceremony, students gathered various white flowers, arranging a bouquet dedicated to the Palestinian community. Each blossom represented a desire for liberation, serenity and hope, with specific dedications to different segments of the affected community—youth, journalists, academics, elders, freedom fighters, healthcare workers, civil defense personnel, the diaspora and more.
The ceremony aimed to amplify the voices of those impacted by the crisis, standing in solidarity with the Palestinian people. The dedication of each flower conveyed a commitment to justice and a plea for an end to the ongoing genocide in Gaza.
Students for Justice in Palestine concluded their letter with specific demands for Drew University:
1. Protection of Palestinian Students: Commitment to protecting Palestinian students and advocates exercising their political rights.
2. Education on Palestine: Introduction of a new course on Palestine under the Center for Middle Eastern Studies, prioritizing Palestinian professors or experts in settler-colonialism studies.
3. Divestment: Review of university investments and divestment from Israeli bonds and corporations supporting settler-colonialism, apartheid and genocide.
4. Public Statement: A statement from the office of the President acknowledging the ongoing genocide against Palestinians and joining the international community in calling for a ceasefire, justice and peace.
The organization believes that by taking these actions, Drew can actively contribute to a more just and inclusive global community. The students express the urgency for President Link to use her leadership to make a difference and guide the university towards justice.
Images courtesy of Students for Justice in Palestine.
