2018-10-11_Ramallah.NGP.UofMLetter101118TA.pdf
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Dr. Mark S. Schlissel
President2074 Fleming Administration Bldg.
503 Thompson Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1340
Dear Dr. Schlissel:
The American Federation of Ramallah, Palestine (AFRP), with over 40,000
members, and the New Generation for Palestine (NGP) kindly request a meeting with
you to discuss various developments pertaining to Palestine/Israel.
We read with concern your statement regarding John Cheney-Lippold, the Associate
Professor who refused to provide a student recommendation letter for study in Israel,
and subsequent disciplinary actions taken in this matter.
Michigan holds one of the largest Palestinian-American communities in the nation.
Thousands of Palestinian Americans and Arab Americans are proud UM students
and alumni. In this time of rancor, it is imperative for you to approach this issue from
various perspectives. For many decades, our voices have been ignored or dismissed
- usually with accusations of anti-Semitism - anytime we discuss the actions of the
Israeli occupation. It is important that we discuss this and other issues with you. We
feel that our community was not consulted on this matter.
The University of Michigan has a storied history of standing up for civil rights in
America, opposing the war in Vietnam, and rising against apartheid in South Africa.
We feel it is imperative that we open a dialogue to discuss actions that stifle freedom
of expression regarding Israel.
We wholeheartedly believe that anti-Semitism, xenophobia, religious intolerance are
despicable and abhorrent, and we stand with anyone who fights these ills. We worry,
however, that moral stands with Palestinian victims are irresponsibly punished,
silenced and wrongfully accused of being anti-Semitic. This should be of concern to
all.
We are available to meet with you as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Terry Ahwal
Former President, current Board Member, American Federation of Ramallah
Palestine
Amer Zahr
President, New Generation for Palestine
cc. Mr. George Habeeb
Part of Letter from American Federation of Ramallah Palestine to President Schlissel