Letters to the Editor: Partnership between Dal and Israeli university encouraging

Dalhousie President Richard Florizone, centre right, signs a memorandum of understanding to create a ocean studies centre in Israel. (Submitted photo)

Dear editor,

As an Israeli citizen and a proud Dal student, I am very pleased to see the continued partnership between Israel and Dalhousie—as illustrated by Dal President Richard Florizone recently signing an agreement between Dal and Ben-Gurion University, and his trip to Israel with Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

Israel, just like Canada, is an incredibly open and multicultural place that holds highly the values of liberty, democracy and equality. Israel champions the rights of minorities and women, and Israeli innovations in medicine, high tech and environmental sustainability make it a strategic partner for any university—especially Dalhousie. President Florizone’s trip to Israel in no way hurts the academic freedom of Dalhousie—in fact, it strengthens our academic environment.

Let us celebrate our shared values and build with our unique strengths. I speak enthusiastically of Dalhousie to my friends and family back in Israel and encourage them to come visit our incredible school. Likewise I would strongly recommend everyone who hasn’t to go on a trip to Israel. Education is the first steps to enlightenment and peace.

Sincerely,

Tamar Ellis

President, Israel on Campus at Dalhousie

Bachelor of Science, ‘16