AMP-Sacramento responds to UC Davis controversy

The constitutional right for one to express their opinion, whether in appreciation or dissent, is one of the most sacred rights given to the American people. There is no place where this right should be protected more than our schools and universities. The American Muslims for Palestine (“AMP”) believes that one’s freedom of speech and expression is a liberty which must not be compromised. On February 27, 2012, StandWithUs and the UC Davis Chabad club “Chai” hosted an event titled “Israeli Soldier Stories” at UC Davis. While AMP acknowledges the right of the Israeli soldiers to speak at UC Davis, it also strongly supports the right of the UC Davis students to express their disapproval of the event.

The students, under the leadership of the Students for Justice in Palestine (“SJP”), intended to take part in a silent walkout, the ultimate form of non-violent protest. AMP’s local Sacramento chapter had members in attendance at the presentation who witnessed the event as it progressed. They observed the students perform their walkout in a silent and dignified manner. Also witnessed was the behavior of an individual who heckled and shouted allegations towards the speakers. This individual has admitted publicly that he was not part of any student effort to protest the event. Members of AMP-Sacramento attempted to calm the individual down during the event, but to no avail. Following the event, AMP activists spoke with the individual and he confirmed to them that he was acting on his own and had no connection to the other students or student groups in attendance. AMP has always been committed to respecting speakers of differing views in the issue of Palestine. Unfortunately, it seems that the organizers of the event did not share the same position. This was evident in their refusal to allow students and community members the opportunity to complete their questions during the Q&A session at the end of the event.

It is for these reasons that we are appalled at the criticism that SJP has come under from different sides regarding their behavior at the event. Unfortunately, the University of California administration has consolidated its view of the event to what has been presented by those who seek to silent student groups who support the Palestinian cause.

UC Davis has produced some the greatest minds in the world. Debate, dialogue and dissent are all part of a learning process that will tailor our future generation into becoming leaders. The students of SJP should not have to defend themselves for freely expressing their opinions. To compromise the free speech of one group to appease others is against everything we stand for as activists, students, and Americans.

The SJP at UC Davis has the full support of the American Muslims for Palestine in their endeavor to shed light on the oppression and injustice that the Palestinian people suffer. The attempts by various groups to silence and condemn the SJP are offensive and unacceptable. Regardless of whatever criticism may come upon us and the students at UC Davis, we will continue to support them and any organization which seeks to educate others about the plight and suffering of the Palestinian people, for this is our right as Americans. We expect the University of California administration to respect and accept that position, for it is your duty as educators.