Brown University has stood firm in rejecting a proposal to divest from 10 companies believed to be connected to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory, despite pressure from protesters. The decision was made by the Corporation of Brown following a committee report advising against divestment, citing the university’s minimal investments in these companies and the limited social impact divesting would have.
According to the report, Brown University had no direct investments in companies like Airbus, Boeing, General Dynamics Corp, and General Electric Co. The indirect investment in these companies from the university’s endowment was estimated to be around 1%. University Chancellor Brian Moynihan and President Christina Paxson issued a joint statement emphasising the importance of academic freedom and free inquiry, stating that divesting could be seen as pushing a singular point of view onto the community.
Last spring, the university had agreed to a vote on the divestment proposal, with student protesters agreeing to dismantle their encampment on campus. Despite efforts by student leaders advocating for divestment, the proposal was ultimately defeated, leaving student activists from the Brown Divest Coalition contemplating their next steps.
The coalition expressed disappointment, calling the decision a moral stain on the university and criticising what they see as support for companies implicated in Israel’s actions. On the other hand, Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, applauded the decision, warning against the broader Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement which targets companies doing business with Israel.
The rejection of divestment by Brown University comes amidst wider debates about divestment from Israel, with critics arguing that such actions can be perceived as antisemitic. The university had faced backlash for considering the vote, including a strong-worded letter from two dozen state attorneys general, all Republicans.
In the face of differing perspectives and pressures, Brown University remains steadfast in its decision not to divest, citing principles of academic freedom while navigating complex social and political issues.