The Cornell Daily Sun (https://cornellsun.com/tag/russell-rickford/)
While condemning Prof. Russell Rickford’s Oct. 15 speech, President Pollack doubled down on her commitment to the 2023-24 school year’s academic theme of free speech in her remarks to the Faculty Senate on Nov. 8.
Various campus demonstrations expressing viewpoints on the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict occurred this week, including anti-Israel graffiti, a rally in support of Palestine and a Jewish community gathering.
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.
There are many areas of social, economic and political controversies that faculty may address in exercising their academic freedom, but perhaps none so controversial as those dealing with Israel and Palestine. The University administration should stand up for faculty who exercise their academic freedom, even in the face of pressure from legislators, trustees, donors, students or alumni to sanction faculty for their speech.
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.
At a rally for Palestine in the City of Ithaca on Sunday, Prof. Russell Rickford said he was “exhilarated” by Hamas’s attack on Israel, which provoked outrage.