IUSA passes resolution to reaffirm American-Israeli relations at IU

The IU Student Association Congress voted to pass a resolution affirming the support of a strong relationship between the United States and Israel on Feb. 8.

The resolution “recognizes Israel’s right to exist and defend itself,” as well as “supports the peace process concerning Israel and its neighbors.”

Voting on the resolution was done by individual roll call, as opposed to the more frequently used method of verbal yeas or nays, passing by a final margin of 26-5.

Resolution author and sponsor Alexander Groysman, who also serves as vice chairman of the IUSA Student Rights Committee, said the resolution is not about Jewish people, but rather about the Jewish state of Israel. 

“It was a political issue, but we wanted to de-politicize it. This is not a private interest resolution. It’s a message to faculty, staff and politicians,” Groysman said.

Groysman began working on the resolution last semester after hearing about the Global Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Movement, which promotes a weaker U.S.-Israel relationship, according to its website.

According to the resolution, Israel, as the only stable democracy in the Middle East, promotes innovation, entrepreneurship and freedom. The resolution also emphasizes Israel’s strong relationship with both the University and the state of Indiana and is part of a special, mutually beneficial relationship with the United States.

IU organizations such as the Jewish Student Center, Hoosiers for Israel and College Democrats and Republicans were co-sponsors of the resolution, along with IUSA Student Body President Michael Coleman and Student Body Vice President Peter SerVaas.

“It’s a great step for the student government to have a positive relationship with Israel,” Hillel program director Ilana Nadel said.