The Fire Next Week

The anti-Semitic left is promising major pro-Hamas demonstrations on Monday, October 7, to mark one year of the “resistance” against the so-called “settler colonialism” of Israel.

Expect a mob to try to block intersections in New York, and many of our elite campuses will see considerable disruptive protests. I’ll be pre-occupied most of Monday doing a methodology workshop for graduate students down at Pepperdine, which, I like to note, puts out 3,000 flags on its lawn every September 11, both for general reasons and because one of its alumni, Thomas Burnett, was on Flight 93. I’m not expecting any nonsense in Malibu.

You can make out the frisson of the old anti-Vietnam War days. At Tufts University, the Hamasniks have revived the old “bring the war home” slogan. At other universities there are major organizing efforts underway. A sampler:

Universities are tying themselves in knots over Monday’s events, as reported in Inside Higher Ed. But at least one university is on it!

The University of Arizona has sent out a message to the faculty and staff noting how the University intends to cope with things on Monday, and it includes this:

Continue to take care
As we navigate the complexities of current events – whether close to home, in our nation or abroad in the world – I would like to take a moment to recognize the emotional impact on our community. Let us remember to look after ourselves and each other so that together we continue to nurture a caring and compassionate campus community and supportive academic environment for our students.

Prioritize self-care: Engage in activities that rejuvenate you, whether it is exercise or pursuing personal interests.

Maintain open dialogue: Create safe spaces for respectful discussions in your classrooms and departments, allowing for diverse perspectives while upholding our values of mutual respect and understanding.

There are many in-community events taking place for students, faculty, and staff during the first weeks in October. Faculty and staff are invited to join an employee event on Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the University Main Library, B201 – Data Studio CATalyst. This welcoming space offers a variety of activities, such as coloring, puzzling and tabletop games, to promote reflection, healing and community among employees. A ComPsych counselor will be on site in addition to Employee Assistance Counseling information and resources. [Emphasis added.]

I’m sure the coloring books and tabletop games will do the trick. Nothing so surely signifies that higher education has become day-care for infants than this.