The Cornell Daily Sun (https://cornellsun.com/tag/rickford/)
Jewish parents questioned the University’s policy enforcement during a private Zoom meeting with Vice President of University Relations Joel Malina and Vice President of Student Life Ryan Lombardi.
Professor Rickford has taken a leave of absence from the University, but did Rickford do anything wrong? The Cornell community and beyond share their beliefs.
Dueling sentiments towards Prof. Russell Rickford currently divide campus following his Oct. 15 remarks, in which he stated he was “exhilarated” by Hamas’s Oct. 7 attacks against Israel.
Just over a week later, Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the Palestinian Authority condemned Hamas’ actions, stating that they do not represent the Palestinian people. The same day, on Sunday, Oct. 16, Cornell University Prof. Russel Rickford, history, called Hamas’ actions “exhilarating” and “energizing.” Instead of condemning acts of terrorism, Professor Rickford celebrated Hamas’s actions as they “changed the balance of power” in Israel. Professor Rickford’s words stand in stark contrast to the values of Cornell University’s ideal of “free and open inquiry and expression.” We cannot stand idly by as students are traumatized by hateful speech from a professor, as this creates a culture of fear of presenting alternative perspectives, lest their academic standing suffer.
As the Middle East goes up in armed conflict, people around the world turn to us to help understand the rhyme and reason for war. But should we be held accountable for our language in war?
As a scholar, a teacher, an activist and a father, I strive to uphold the values of human dignity, peace and justice.