In an email at 9 P.M. on May 23, the eve of the Graduation ceremony, the Ashoka University Student Government (AUSG) informed graduating students that anyone wearing the Palestine solidarity stickers designed by AUSG would face consequences from the administration “including, but not limited to barring students from entering the Convocation altogether”.
The email came after members of the AUSG were called into a meeting with the administration, where they were asked to communicate to the student body that wearing stickers, or any kind of protest and demonstration during the event would lead to consequences.
The AUSG also clarified that they have not, and will not, distribute the stickers that they designed.
This is the latest in a continued standoff between AUSG, members of the larger student community, and the Ashoka administration with respect to actions that the University must take vis-a-vis the genocide in Palestine.
On May 8, AUSG wrote to students after a meeting with the office of the Pro-Vice Chancellor, that the administration considered cutting ties with Tel Aviv University a “political stance” that they were unwilling to take. This came after a petition signed by 451 students and 40 members of staff demanded that the University cut all ties with Tel Aviv University.
"Be the change you wish to see in the world...?" Nah. More like "hush. We are a young university and we are apolitical. Totally not supporting genocides. Now, now, say good things about us and go change the world." -def Ashoka Admin
"You know what's more important than basic human rights? Ashokan reputation. Don't speak out against genocide. Just accept and encourage it. Hehe" -Ashoka Administration core