Dear Harvard Independent Readers,
As conversations surrounding the conflict in Israel and Palestine continue to escalate on campus, we must recognize our positions as both Harvard students and human beings, and the role we play in public discourse.
Over the past decade we have reported on students organizing with respect to Israel and Palestine. Our reporting work has shed light on student perspectives and experiences, and started important discussions around the conflict. Though we are proud of the journalism we have produced, we condemn the use of our reporting for malicious and harmful reasons.
At a time where personal religious and ethnic identities shape political dialogue on campus more than ever, we must remember the importance of open and respectful discourse. Personal threats, verbal abuse, and disparaging attitudes towards individuals with different belief systems only reinforces the cultural divides that separate us from one another.
We encourage you to check in on the safety and well-being of anyone you know who has personal ties to the conflict. Despite our intellectual, cultural, and ethical differences, we all share an identity as Harvard students, and have the responsibility to care for each other in these turbulent times.
As a matter of policy, the Harvard Independent does not take collective organizational positions or print staff editorials. In the coming weeks we plan to continue reporting on Israel, Palestine and Harvard student life. Opinions in all articles belong only to the writer and do not reflect the Independent.
Yours in the Indy,
Noah Tavares, President
Marbella Marlo, Editor-in-Chief