Editor’s Note: On March 12, 2024, Hebrew University suspended Palestinian professor Nadera Shalhoub-Kevorkian for denouncing Israel’s genocide in Gaza. The university justified the suspension by saying it would “preserve a safe climate on campus.” Shalhoub-Kevorkian had been under pressure to resign from the university since late October, when she signed a call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
We, the Palestine-Global Mental Health Network, with the networks of Australia, Canada, France, Ireland, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States, are unified in denouncing the Hebrew University’s suspension of Professor Nadera Shalhoub-Kevorkian. Professor Shalhoub-Kevorkian is not only a respected academic in the fields of social work and law but also a world-renowned feminist scholar whose extensive work has illuminated the multifaceted impacts of militarization, surveillance, and violence on the lives of Palestinian women and children.
This decision by the Hebrew University sends a chilling message to scholars worldwide, particularly those engaged in critical studies and activism that challenge injustices and seek to uncover the truths that lie beneath the surface of politically charged contexts. Academic freedom is a cornerstone of any democratic society, allowing scholars to pursue research, teach, and disseminate knowledge without fear of censorship, retribution, and silencing. The suspension of Professor Shalhoub-Kevorkian is a direct affront to this principle, jeopardizing not only her career and personal well-being but also the integrity and independence of academic inquiry at a global level.
The actions taken against Professor Shalhoub-Kevorkian are particularly alarming in the context of her dedication to advocating for the mental health and human rights of Palestinian communities. Through her groundbreaking research and community engagement, she has provided invaluable insights into the psychological and social ramifications of living under prolonged conflict and oppression. Silencing her voice undermines not only academic freedom but also the broader struggle for human rights and dignity in Palestine and beyond.
As Networks committed to the promotion of mental health and the protection of human rights, we stand in solidarity with Professor Nadera Shalhoub-Kevorkian and call for her immediate reinstatement at the Hebrew University. We urge academic institutions worldwide to recognize the gravity of this situation and to reaffirm their commitment to protecting the rights of scholars, particularly those who, like Professor Shalhoub-Kevorkian, have attained international influence and a global following. We ask you to join us in condemning this unjust action and supporting measures that safeguard academic freedom and the rights of scholars everywhere.
We urge you to consider sending letters to the following individuals at the Hebrew University:
1) Asher Cohen (President, hupres@savion.huji.ac.il )
2) Tamir Sheafer (Rector, rector@savion.huji.ac.il ),
3) Asher Ben Arieh (Dean of Social Work, benarieh@mail.huji.ac.il )
4) Tomer Broude (Law dean, tomerbroude@gmail.com)
Draft Letter to the President of Hebrew University
Subject: Urgent Appeal for Reinstatement of Professor Nadera Shalhoub-Kevorkian
Dear [name of Hebrew University member],
I write to express grave concern over Professor Nadera Shalhoub-Kevorkian’s suspension, a move that contradicts the principles of academic freedom and integrity. As a renowned scholar, her work is crucial for understanding the impacts of conflict on vulnerable communities. This decision not only affects her but signals a worrying stance on scholarly debate and inquiry by the Hebrew University.
I urge you to restore Professor Shalhoub-Kevorkian to her position, reaffirming your commitment to academic freedom and the vital role of scholars in society. This action would demonstrate the university’s support for critical thinking and scholarly integrity, reinforcing its position as a leader in academic excellence and human rights advocacy.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] [Your Position] [Your Organization] [Contact Information]
Hebrew University is by definition a Jewish Israeli institution. Why should any school accord a teaching position to someone who hates its administrators, faculty and students and wants to subjugate and expel them? Anyone who’s Jewish and has the least interest in self-preservation on any level incurs Mondoweiss’ opprobrium, and the latter boasts with a straight face about its “honest reporting.” It doesn’t seem to have much respect for the intelligence of its readers.