While protests against Israel on college campuses have been underway around the nation in recent weeks, students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) took a stance against Israel earlier this year.
In February, the UAB Student Government (USGA) Senate introduced a formal resolution condemning Israel.
The Student Senate also introduced a resolution calling for a Palestinian flag to be added to the wall of flags at Hill Student Center. Dozens of flags represent the home nations of students at the school. Photos show that a Palestinian flag is already on the wall. However, new information provided to 1819 News suggests there is no longer a Palestinian flag.
According to Israel Insight, the resolution further states that the Student Senate “condemns the ongoing occupation, settler colonialism, apartheid, ethnic cleansing of Palestinians since 1948” and “plausible genocide of Gaza since 2023.”
Hamas, a Palestinian terror group, led a coordinated attack in Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing over 1,130 people, mostly civilians. Some people were attacked while in their homes, and others while driving their cars. Many women were raped in front of their husbands and children, and some were set on fire. Those who weren’t killed were kidnapped and are still being held hostage in the Gaza Strip. The conflict has been ongoing as Israel fights to protect its right to exist. Estimated Palestinian deaths have reached over 25,000, according to some estimates.
The resolution said it “stands in unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people” and calls for justice and consequences against the Israelis. The resolution was not passed by the Senate.
This isn’t the first time a UAB group has called for action against Israel.
Nooraldein Alabsi, President of the Muslim Student Association and the author of the Student Senate resolution, spoke at a protest at UAB in support of Palestine. He said the conflict personally impacted him.
Some UAB students showed up to the protest to counter the pro-Palestinian demonstration. They said what happened on October 7 was similar to 9/11 in the United States, and they wanted to support Israel. Even the pro-Palestinian protesters told UAB’s Kaleidoscope that the Israeli supporters should be commended for their respectful demonstration.
The USGA represents seven undergraduate schools at UAB. Members introduce bills to add or amend the USGA Constitution and Code of Laws.
During its 2022-23 Legislative Session, the Student Senate passed a resolution calling for more inclusive meat options and to make halal and kosher meat options “default” for all students. The resolution stated the student government was honored to represent all students.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
