Portland State University (PSU) has joined the ranks of American universities in opting for the student protest demanding Israel’s withdrawal, which is called for divestment from Israel. The university has just declared that it is rescinding a decision that allows it not to receive any gifts or donations from Boeing Company for a short period.
The announcement by PSU President Ann Cudd that there will be a public forum to uphold debate about philosophical aspects involving Boeing’s connection with the university stresses the gravity of the situation.
This move is entirely motivated by the strikes and protests on the PSU campus against Israel’s aggressive moves in Gaza, which also demanded the termination of any links and divestment from companies that manufacture weapons and technology for the country.
Boeing is a leading American producer and a close economic partner of Israel, which plays a very important role in the development of the Israeli economy. Nevertheless, PSU’s take may be connected with the arguments made by students and faculty members, who are generally unsatisfied and want disassociation from the company.
President Cudd recognized this largely emotional response to the demand and swore to give it a careful thought. She plans to deep into ethical questions related to the universities linkage.
In the wake of the ongoing protests that are taking place on campuses all over the United States, the White House has made it clear that only peaceful demonstrations are acceptable and that any acts of racism, discrimination, and threats of violence are unconditional acts of pondering.
The call for divesting from Israel is acquiring momentum. Actions were initiated at Columbia University to demonstrate, and afterward, the popular influence of this movement has been adopted across the country.
