ACP Education Statement
The American Council for Palestine- Education Committee is committed to supporting all educational institutions in the greater Portland area in their efforts towards Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion so their staff, faculty, and students can live, work, and learn in environments free of discrimination. We oppose racism in all its forms, including anti-Palestinian racism and antisemitism. We are committed to confronting inequities, both individual and institutionally and promoting justice for all.
We aim to create a space for mutual understanding and respectful discussion about the historic and current discrimination directed at Palestinian communities in America and worldwide.
Since October 7, anti-Palestinian racism has emerged more prominently in numerous venues. Anti-Palestinian racism targets Palestinians by denying their history, culture, and heritage and demonizing their movements for liberation. It often entails suppressing speech and activism related to the Palestinian cause.
As educators, we feel a special responsibility to speak out against scholasticide, Israel’s systematic destruction of Palestinian schools and universities, and murder of Palestinian teachers and students. We also have a responsibility to develop curricula that address the injustices suffered by Palestinians and all other oppressed peoples. We seek to increase aware
ness, resources, and learning opportunities to make Palestinian history and culture accessible for all educators who choose to integrate it into their curriculum.
Our work includes:
- Building community and networking: Connecting and supporting K-12, college, and university educators and administrators in the greater Portland area.
- Learning and sharing about educators’ legal rights regarding academic freedom
- Assisting in bringing Palestinian students to the U.S. to continue their education.
- Organizing teach- ins for Administration, faculty, and students.
- Organizing Palestinian focused cultural events.
We are anxious to reach out to school administrators, faculty, staff and students to discuss these topics.