Sabra Hummus Petition Update

April 30, 2018

To the Swarthmore Campus Community,

Recently, Swarthmore Students for Justice in Palestine presented me with a petition signed by members of our on- and off-campus community to discontinue the sale of Sabra hummus on campus. After careful consideration and research, I write today to announce that the College will continue to offer Sabra hummus, and starting May 2, will provide an alternative hummus brand on campus as well. Following discussions with colleagues and representatives of various student groups, and having now conducted background research, the College has decided that this solution best addresses the concerns that have been raised.

This issue has revived difficult debates pertaining to Israel and Palestine. Members of our community have been deeply affected by these conversations -- some in ways that have led to greater understanding, others in ways that have led to distress. I commend Peace and Conflict Studies, the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life, the Office of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Development, and various student organizations for sponsoring programs and events that have provided space for these conversations.

Our community is passionate about addressing issues of public concern. While that passion is commendable, we must continue to value the importance of remaining in dialogue with each other, especially those whose views and experiences differ from our own.

Sincerely,
Valerie Smith
President