Yale's YCC Senate Ties on Israel Donation Resolution
The Yale College Council (YCC) Senate recently debated a proposal to address Yale's 2023 donation to the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF). The proposal, introduced by Hassaan Qadir '26, aimed to convey student concerns about the administration's decision. However, the Senate failed to reach a consensus, with the vote ending in a tie of 12-12 and the Vice President abstaining.
The debate centered around a resolution calling for Yale to issue a 'formal statement of accountability' for its involvement in the donation. Santiago Giraldo '28 argued that the resolution should set moral standards for Yale's investments and divestments. However, Henry Liu '28 countered that condemning a donation made during a time of public sympathy towards Israel would not be sensible now.
Saniya Mishra '28 expressed concern that a public statement could invite unwanted national attention and potentially lead to cuts in federal funding. Sahra Wahedi '27, citing a 2024 YCC referendum, supported the idea that senators should care about the issue of divestment. Joseph Elsayyid '26 and Benjamin Barkoff '27 held differing views on whether the YCC should condemn Yale's donation to FIDF. Despite the lively debate, the Senate could not reach a consensus on the role of the YCC in political issues.
The YCC Senate's inability to pass the proposal highlights the complexity of navigating political issues within the university. Yale's $1 million donation to FIDF in November 2023, following Hamas' attack on Israel, remains a topic of discussion among students. The Senate's tie vote and abstentions indicate a need for further dialogue and consensus-building on such matters.
