American Anthro Association: Don't Implement Hateful Anti-Israel Referendum

The American Anthropological Association just passed a referendum endorsing the antisemitic BDS movement. Call on their board not to implement the referendum due to concerns about the approval process and potential implications for the association.

The referendum passed with only 26% of eligible AAA members voting in favor, raising questions about its representativeness and legitimacy and demonstrating a lack of consensus on this issue. Such a divisive position should have broad support to ensure fairness and inclusivity in decision-making, rather than reflecting the views of a vocal minority. 

This referendum proudly affiliates with the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement whose stated goal is dismantling the State of Israel. Implementing this referendum would ensure anti-Israel activists score cheap political points at the expense of academics and students. This brings into question the integrity of the Association as many individuals and institutions will view it as an anti-Israel mouthpiece rather than a legitimate academic association. This also sets a precedent for future abuse of AAA’s platform and voice for pushing other political agendas.

Additionally, the referendum will lead to discrimination and boycotts against Israeli academics, despite claims to the contrary. Boycotting institutions affects faculty and staff, exposing AAA to potential discrimination litigation and undermining AAA’s commitment to equality. 

Moreover, some leading advocates of the referendum have a history of making antisemitic statements, which contradicts the principles of inclusivity and respect for all members.

In light of these concerns, I strongly urge the AAA Executive Board to:

1. Not implement the referendum: Given the low voter turnout, it is essential for such a significant policy change to be rejected since it does not have broad consensus. This referendum was only supported by roughly a quarter of the eligible voting membership. 
2. Address concerns of antisemitism: Take a firm stance against discrimination and hate, including antisemitism, and thoroughly investigate any allegations related to the referendum's supporters.

The AAA has always stood for scholarly exchange and inclusivity and must continue to uphold the values of the AAA community. We urge you not to implement the anti-Israel boycott referendum.