Oct 19, 2023

From the NCSS President 
A Statement on the Israel-Palestine Conflict

In light of the recent events in Israel and Palestine, it is crucial to acknowledge the fundamental principles of human rights and peace. On the eve of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), let us not forget Article III: "Everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person." The UDHR applies to all individuals, regardless of ethnicity, religion, national origin, or any other distinguishing factors.

It is indeed heart-wrenching to witness the tragedies that continue to unfold in this conflict, affecting people with and without faith, in western Asia¹ and around the world. It is also important to acknowledge that this conflict is not new, that this region of the world has suffered greatly from historical violence perpetrated by various peoples, including state and non-state actors. Whether it occurs in Israel and Palestine or anywhere else globally, war and violence of any kind are wrong. 

In these trying times, it is essential that we foster an open and inclusive dialogue with voices from all sides of this or any conflict. Each perspective contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the situation and, hopefully, a path towards a peaceful resolution.

Additionally, it is critical to address the impact this conflict has on our students and their families, as well as on our fellow educators. Humans process tragedies differently, and schools must provide support, especially to those who identify as Arab, Israeli, Jewish, Muslim, or Palestinian. Schools must be safe spaces for all and cannot be places where further violence is perpetrated. 

While my hope is to set a tone for civil dialogue and express compassion, it is also to acknowledge a complex, evolving situation that can be politically and religiously divisive. The social studies classroom is uniquely positioned to discuss these necessary topics. As social studies educators, we are civility engineers. We can and should serve as models for civil discourse, but we cannot do it alone. It is incumbent upon all of us to educate ourselves fully about the complexities of this or any issue to ensure we do not share or make decisions based on false information. Parents and guardians also play a vital role.

Lastly, I join the call for peace. Silence can perpetuate violence, and it is our responsibility to speak out against injustice. As the late, great Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” This message is a personal reflection, and I welcome feedback to it, as I am continually learning and striving for both a greater understanding of humanity and a more harmonious world.

^{1 Often known from a Western perspective as the Middle East.}
 

Wesley Hedgepeth
NCSS President
whedgepeth@ncss.org