Amidst changes to student handbook policies and an emphasis on freedom of expression in CommonVU orientation, The Hustler took a look at student organizations’ plans to continue activism this fall.
After a spring semester that included protests, sit-ins and demonstrations that put Vanderbilt in the national spotlight, student organizations that participated in this activism expressed a desire to continue their efforts this semester. Students Supporting Israel President Maya Robin described SSI’s plans for the fall.
“SSI plans to advocate for the State of Israel and educate students on campus about Israel’s right to exist,” Robin said in a message to The Hustler. “Like last year, SSI is committed to respecting the diversity of opinions inherent in the discussion of geopolitics and will always strive to engage in meaningful dialogue.”
Vanderbilt Hillel President Sydney Grossman, a junior, and ‘Dores for Israel President Luke Halpern, a senior, sent a joint statement to The Hustler on behalf of their respective organizations explaining their response to the new policies.
“Hillel and ‘Dores for Israel have always worked to follow the student handbook, including time, place and manner restrictions and all general guidelines. Following these rules help us facilitate thoughtful conversation and meaningful discourse on campus,” the statement reads. “We remain committed to abiding by the handbook as best we can while seeking peaceful dialogue across campus, and we hope that every registered student organization on campus prioritizes this.”
A VDC representative being kept anonymous for protection from retribution said VDC spent the summer building its education base and strategizing.
“Last semester was part of a movement, not a moment, and it is important to understand that the Vanderbilt Divest Coalition is grounded in Free Palestine, which requires commitment, education and sustainable growth,” the representative said. “The Vanderbilt Divest Coalition stays grounded in its goal of educating the Vanderbilt community and working to end Vanderbilt’s complacency and contributions to the ongoing genocide and apartheid.”
The representative also elaborated on the status of the students who were on probation and suspended.
“The students who were on probation and suspended all had their appeals denied, which was the expected outcome as the student accountability process is an obvious kangaroo court,” the representative said.
