In response to the Oct. 30 article "Students initiate talks on Palestine," Penn State Hillel declined participation in the event Shadi Ghrayep referenced because our approach to constructive dialogue is different than Norman Finkelstein's.
As an example, on Oct. 19, Penn State Hillel partnered with the Arab Student Union, the Center for Ethics and Religious Affairs, the Race Relations Project and University Park Allocation Committee to bring a comedy show to campus that featured Palestinian and Jewish comedians.
This event, attended by a very diverse audience of approximately 250 students, faculty and community members, promoted the need for common ground and dialogue.
We believe this is the proper approach to dialogue, as opposed to provocative images displayed at the Allen Street gates.
Michal Berns
junior-media law and policy
Penn State Hillel student president
