ADL: Mock Eviction Notices at Harvard Intimidate Students

Boston, MA, March 5, 2013 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) expressed outrage after mock eviction notices were posted on students’ doors in freshman and upper class dorms at Harvard University in an effort to promote “Israel Apartheid Week.”

The campaign, which was organized by the Harvard Palestine Solidarity Committee, distributed the offensive notices on March 2, which read “we regret to inform you that your suite is scheduled for demolition in the next three days” in reference to the group’s stance on Israel’s apparent treatment of the Palestinian population.

“This tactic is designed to silence and intimidate pro-Israel advocates at Harvard and campuses around the country,” said Robert Trestan, ADL Acting New England Regional Director.  “Free expression has a place on campus; however targeting the dorms of Harvard students lends itself to creating tension, isolating students and fomenting hostility.”

ADL also voiced its concern about the underlying anti-Israel message.

“We recognize and support free speech, but condemn the anti-Israel views expressed in the eviction notices as factually incorrect and intolerant,” Mr. Trestan said.  “This is an example of how anti-Israel activism on campus can cross the line by causing supporters to feel isolated and intimidated.”

“Efforts like these only seek to delegitimize Israel and prevent opportunities for meaningful dialogue on campus,” said Jeffrey Robbins, ADL New England Regional Board Chair.  “It is morally disgraceful to label Israel as an apartheid state because it constructed a security barrier to keep innocent Israeli civilians from being targeted with terrorism.  This tactic of mock eviction notices is more calculated to mislead and offend than to shed light.”