In response to student concerns following the recent conflict in the Middle East, Tarek Masoud initiated the 'Middle East Dialogues' series at Harvard Kennedy School. The series aims to engage the campus community in meaningful discussions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing the importance of exploring differing perspectives and complex issues surrounding the topic. Masoud recognized the challenge of fully addressing the debates on such a divisive subject, illustrating his commitment to creating a platform for thoughtful discourse and fostering understanding among students with varying viewpoints.
My first thought was to be very angry because I had been working hard to provide learning opportunities for our community on this issue, but I later concluded that there was a deeper truth.
Every single one of these speakers was being brought here not to be, quote-unquote, platformed or praised, but to be interrogated.
What students are really hungry for is to hear the most important arguments on either side.
Masoud wanted the events to explore the historical, political, religious, and cultural complexities of what was going on.
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