Utrecht University of Applied Sciences (HU) says that although the lectures on the Holocaust are organized at other times, they will not be cancelled. “The picture that is now being painted in the media and the conclusions drawn from it are not correct,” the HU said.
Daily newspaper Of Telegraaf read the headline on Sunday morning that there is ‘anger’ regarding the university’s decision to ‘delete Holocaust lectures’. The article states that many people involved in the issue are convinced that the university has bowed to pressure from pro-Palestinian activists.
A spokesperson for HU is cited, among others, as well as a lecturer who would give one of the lectures. “We must now send a clear signal: we decide what we teach, not a group of activists,” the teacher reportedly told the Telegraaf journalist.
Safety
The HU now says in a response that the lectures have been postponed because the safety of speakers, students, teachers and visitors might not be guaranteed. “Utrecht University of Applied Sciences makes its own decisions when it comes to the content, form and implementation of its education and is not guided by interest groups or activists.”
In addition, the educational institution says that the lectures have not been canceled, but will take place at a later time. “Contrary to reports from third parties, the planned lecture series on the Holocaust at Utrecht University of Applied Sciences will continue.”
Chair
Finally, chairman of the board of Utrecht University of Applied Sciences Wilma Scholte op Reimer says the following: “We attach great importance to good education regarding the horrors of the Holocaust and will continue to do so. These horrors cannot in any way be linked to the current tensions over the war in the Middle East, that is our priority. We reject the suggestion that we link education regarding the Holocaust to current tensions.”
Climbing event
This weekend, Israeli athletes were also reportedly refused entry to a climbing event in Utrecht following threats from outside. It reports that AD.
“We must never bow to threats and intimidation,” says Mayor Sharon Dijksma in response to that news. “Everyone should be welcome in Utrecht to participate in sporting events. Unfortunately, we heard regarding the situation too late, but as a result we immediately entered into discussions with the organizer. We always make every effort, together with the organizer, to ensure that events run as safely as possible and to take appropriate measures where necessary.”
