We are writing to say that we were deeply frustrated by the full-page ad posted on page six of Monday’s copy of The Daily Pennsylvanian. We found it to be offensive, disgusting and hateful towards Muslims.
This is not a situation that calls for mincing words — the views espoused by the proponents of “Islamic Apartheid Week” are appalling and frightening. The advertisement replaces intellectual honesty with unsubstantiated generalizations and exchanges honest conversation for close-minded xenophobia. It was unique in its ability to transcend even politics and simply spew hatred, seemingly for its own sake.
Our campus community cannot be one that pushes people away from their cherished identities. Discrimination based on nationality, orientation, race or religion makes Penn an unsafe place for us all.
Our own people’s history is a constant reminder that ideas akin to those perpetuated by the David Horowitz Freedom Center are utterly intolerable. If it is not safe to be a Muslim at Penn, it raises a question about the safety of all minorities on this campus. This is not the first time Islamophobia (or the David Horowitz Freedom Center for that matter) has reared its ugly head on our campus, but we pray that it will be the last.
As members of the Jewish community, we feel it is our duty to make it abundantly clear that we are sickened by Monday’s hateful advertisement and stand in full solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Muslim Students Association.
Josh Cooper is a College junior and the Penn Hillel president. Claire Shimberg is a College junior and the Penn Hillel vice president.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.