Many Israelis, Palestinians and diaspora Jews have long believed in open dialogue and collaboration as a path to peace. This commitment has been evident in diplomatic efforts like the Oslo Accords and the Camp David Negotiations, as well as through the work of numerous nonprofits in the region. One such organization, Seeds of Peace, fosters dialogue and understanding among young leaders from conflict areas, promoting long-term coexistence. However, the landscape shifted dramatically following the Hamas-led attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023 and the war that followed, challenging long-standing efforts for peace.
The rise in hostility made it impossible to continue these conversations. The open discussions I once believed in seemed to disappear. While individuals critical of Israel and its policies claimed to be open to conversation, their unwillingness to truly listen made it feel futile. There was once a table for discussion, but now it feels like it no longer exists. And if it does, those of us who still seek dialogue are no longer welcome at it.
This became painfully clear when I attended the "Pathways to Peace" event at Bailey Hall. The panel featured experts with deep experience in the region. Ryan Crocker, a former U.S. ambassador to multiple Middle Eastern countries, served as the moderator. The panelists included Salam Fayyad, former prime minister of the Palestinian Authority; Tzipi Livni, former vice prime minister and foreign minister of Israel; and Daniel B. Shapiro, former U.S. ambassador to Israel. It was supposed to be an opportunity to hear multiple perspectives and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Instead, it quickly became clear that open discussion was impossible. Protesters from various groups repeatedly interrupted the speakers, making it impossible to have a real conversation. It was frustrating to see students actively silencing experts from both sides of the conflict. The protesters claimed to be fighting for justice, yet their actions directly contradicted this. When they shouted and walked out, Crocker put it plainly: “If there is a path to peace, this is not it.” Cornell University Police identified 17 protesters as responsible, but disruptions continued as others found ways to interfere, despite President Michael Kotlikoff's warning that further interruptions would lead to removal.
They coughed and cleared their throats after almost every word spoken by the panelists, making it impossible to follow the discussion. Their message was clear: They did not come to listen or debate. They came to silence.
I came to learn, listen and engage in a difficult but necessary conversation. Instead, the anger in the room was overwhelming. The constant outbursts did not just disrupt the event, they made it feel like an attack. I had expected a space where different perspectives could be discussed.
Kotlikoff later told The Sun, “I don’t think that’s how learning occurs, and I expect more from Cornell students.” He was right. This was not about disagreement; it was about refusing to engage at all. There is a difference between challenging ideas and outright silencing them.
Free speech and academic discourse must be upheld, especially when the topics are difficult. The right to protest is no more fundamental than the right to have differing perspectives heard. If we cannot even hold a panel discussion on peace without disruption, how can we hope to move forward?
This experience strengthened my belief in the importance of open dialogue and my connection to Israel. True justice and peace require listening, even when perspectives differ. The protesters may have tried to silence voices, but they only reinforced my conviction that meaningful conversations must continue. Without dialogue, we forfeit the possibility of understanding and progress.
Nicole Schanker is a first-year Master of Health Administration student, pursuing her second master’s degree after earning her first in social work. As a former therapist and a returned Peace Corps volunteer, she is passionate about healthcare equity and mental health advocacy. She can be reached by email at nls86@cornell.edu.
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