Organizational actions
Dear Ed Scholars,
In this message we are sharing news from two professional organizations, as background toward action in our own spaces and organizations. We begin with the Modern Language Association (MLA), and then turn to a big success at the American Historical Association (AHA).
The Modern Language Association (MLA) is refusing to allow members to vote on a resolution endorsing the 2005 Palestinian call for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions. In response, supporters of the resolution are planning protests at the MLA’s annual convention in New Orleans January 9-12. Here are links to a press release with more information, and to an Instagram post with a list of actions in New Orleans.
At the annual business meeting of the American Historical Association (AHA), a Resolution to Oppose Scholasticide in Gaza was overwhelmingly approved by a vote of 428-88.
We share here some excerpts from a report by Historians for Peace and Democracy:
“This vote was the product of months of careful organizing by our Steering Committee, our superb staff organizers, and a solid cadre of members. We went into the Annual Meeting on Thursday with 171 committed voters, and those folks proceeded to recruit hundreds more, especially among younger faculty and graduate students. Thousands of fliers and stickers were distributed, and many if not most panels were leafletted. Hats off to all of us who made this happen, and especially our five speakers (Professors Sherene Seikaly, Paul Ortiz, Jr., Raz Segal, Van Gosse, and Barbara Weinstein), whose presentations were deeply compelling; to read their statements click [here].
Our victory yesterday is already receiving considerable press attention:
· The New York Times comprehensively reported on our resolution;
· Sherene and Barbara were on Democracy Now! this morning;
· An Inside Higher Ed story;
· Haaretz will publish a story;
The AHA Council now has to act on our resolution per the Association’s bylaws. It could approve, or veto on specified grounds, or send it out to the full membership for an online debate and vote. We expect the latter, as was the case with our 2007 resolution censuring the war in Iraq. Stay tuned!”
A reminder: Please share the petition to the AFT and sign if you are a member.
Please reach out to EdScholars4Palestine@gmail.com if you are interested in organizing for AERA this year, or for any other reason.
In solidarity always,
EdScholars4Palestine