From one semester to the next, students attempt to turn the page in the hopes of resetting their mindset for the new semester. In the case of the Israel-Hamas war, it seems that after months of badgering from students on both sides to “pick a side,” many Cornellians are instead turning towards more pressing matters for college students: grades, clubs and other social activities.
While the pro-Israel side has seemed to quiet down, the Cornellians for Mutual Liberation are roaring. This small minority presses on, believing that the louder they scream, the more righteous their cause. Confusion arises when one asks what the CML is trying to accomplish. Cornell’s connection to the Israel-Hamas war is exceedingly small, and any University action has an even smaller impact on the outcome of the war. Chanting “genocide” and “shame” does not impact the war in the Middle East any more than if Oakenshields decides to serve tacos or burgers. The CML’s actions this semester amount to nothing more than virtue signaling, or an attempt to show that they care without taking any meaningful action.
A Waste of Four Hours
I attended the February 1 Student Assembly meeting where the CML, amongst other groups, sought to pass Resolution 51, which called for Cornell to divest from “violence against civilians in Gaza.” It was a complete and utter waste of time.
First of all, the resolution had no chance of passing all the necessary hurdles. If the Student Assembly had decided to pass the resolution (a big if),it would have had to have passed 4 other administrative chambers before being recommended to the Board of Trustees. Even if it had somehow passed all chambers, it would have to be approved by President Pollack, as well as the Board of Trustees. Pollack, who has openly voiced opposition to Boycott Divest and Sanction (BDS) initiatives such as Resolution 51, would have almost assuredly rejected the resolution.
Even if Pollack had some radical change of heart, BDS measures are illegal in New York. The President would have been legally obligated to retract the measure. The resolution had the same chances of passing as a blizzard in June. Even if it had passed, it would have been illegal to implement.
And yet, knowing all this, the CML plodded on, determined to make a fruitless stand. It was said time and time again by the opposition that it had almost zero chance of being implemented, and that it was illegal. This didn’t stop the CML from blathering on for four hours. This dribble was the CML’s way of showing how much they cared. Instead of making an impact, all they did was waste everyone’s valuable time.
What is the CML trying to accomplish?
Besides pressing the Student Assembly resolution, the CML has organized a few rallies, walk outs and die-ins to make themselves heard. My question is, what are they trying to accomplish? These students have every right to protest and chant in the public square, but this is apparently not enough for them. They must do it in a way where everyone must hear them. So they protest in libraries, which is a clear violation of university policy. It is unclear what all their screaming and chanting has accomplished beyond temporarily annoying some students. On March 6th, there will be yet another walkout. Their chants will presumably fall upon deaf ears by the majority of students. There is, however, a more effective alternative.
How to Make an Actual Impact
Instead of chanting anti-semitic slogans and throwing around accusations of genocide, I would recommend engaging fellow students in a meaningful dialogue, with the goal of convincing them that your side is right. Instead of holding a “die-in” in Willard Straight, hold a “learn-in” at Ho Plaza where students can engage in a serious minded debate about the Israel-Hamas war. Set up several tables, sit at them all day and encourage passing students to ask questions or engage in a serious debate. Whether they agree or disagree at the end, you will have enlightened students who were previously unaware of your points, or given your opposition a new perspective, which is always helpful in creating a dialogue. This advice can be applied to a number of groups, and students beyond the CML. They would be well served to stop braying and start debating.
At one of America’s elite universities, I would expect students to have the capacity to engage in a rational and respectful dialogue. While this may or may not be true at Cornell, it does not change the fact that one meaningful debate accomplishes more than any amount of chanting slogans ever will.
