On April 18th, 2024, the Division of Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs (PPPA) in the School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences (SIAS) held a teach-in on the historical, political, and legal contexts surrounding the present war in Gaza.PPPA faculty would like to thank all of the UWT community members who helped make the teach-in such a meaningful and important opportunity for collective learning and dialogue, especially the faculty and students from Law and Policy; Politics, Philosophy, and Economics; Creative Writing; American Indian Studies; and Psychology who had a hand in the program and planning.
Below is a reflection from Law and Policy senior Mahamed M. Rage who attended the event.
Heading into the Gaza teach-in event, I felt a sense of apprehension, anticipating potential controversy and opposition. This apprehension has been informed by the constant media coverage of colleges when they try to address this issue or make space for their students. However, my concerns were quickly alleviated as soon as I entered the well-organized venue where heartfelt poems about the war on Gaza were being shared. This thoughtful presentation set a respectful tone, enriching my understanding of the profound impact of the conflict expressed through poetry.
The event included a short film emphasizing the importance of cultural pride, particularly highlighting the resilience and enduring spirit of the Palestinian people despite their lack of recognition on international maps. This was followed by a factual and balanced talk from Dr. Etga Ugur, who provided insightful context into the Gaza conflict’s historical, political, and regional dimensions. I appreciated that the presentation steered clear of bias, contributing to the focused and harmonious atmosphere.
The session concluded with interactive discussions at various tables, each centered on different aspects of the conflict, including significant cases before the International Court of Justice. I was particularly drawn to this topic, gaining insights into additional legal actions stemming from the conflict, such as a noteworthy case brought by Nicaragua against Germany related to arms sales. The event wrapped up with more poetry, a soothing end that prompted reflection rather than agitation.
This experience not only broadened my knowledge but also underscored the importance of such educational events in fostering informed dialogue and awareness of global issues. I commend the organizers for fostering and creating an environment that was so open and filled with compassion and respect, for learning and introspection. It left me more reflective and informed, highlighting how crucial access to quality balanced information is for understanding complex international matters.