University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s student government passes Divest for Humanity Act

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The Student Government at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln voted on Senate Bill #14, the Divest for Humanity Act.

The measure aims to demand that UNL divest funds allocated towards Israel.

The motion passed 22-10.

UNL’s interim chancellor, Katherine Ankerson, released a statement regarding the vote:

“The University of Nebraska–Lincoln values and supports student civic engagement as an important part of campus life. While student organizations, like ASUN, play a meaningful role in expressing student perspectives, their statements and votes do not represent the official positions of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln or the NU Board of Regents. Our Board of Regents retains final authority on matters of university policy. UNL remains committed to fostering a safe and respectful environment for students, faculty, staff and community members.”

However, it sparked a heated debate on Wednesday night before the motion was voted on.

According to Students Justice for Palestine, the University of Nebraska’s system invests $9 million into defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin and General Dynamics, some of which goes to Israel.

Those against the bill say this measure is antisemitic.

“This resolution is also anti-Nebraska,” said one student. “It will not accomplish anything for our University.”

“This bill points out that there are other genocides in this world, but only puts these genocides on one state,” said another student. “It makes them responsible for all of it.”

But those in favor of it say the killing in Palestine needs to stop.

“Palestinians will never have the same rights as Israeli’s as long as Israel exists,” said a student in support of the measure.

“I’ve never heard someone say in a classroom that we need to invest in more killing,” said a student at UNMC.

More than 60 people spoke during the open forum session, which lasted several hours.

“I paid $25,000 in tuition. I do not want my money to go towards a genocide. That is absolutely disgusting,” said another student in favor of the resolution.”

However, those in the opposition didn’t believe this measure would go far. “In general, this resolution is going to ultimately mean nothing,” said one student. “It’s going to be sent over to the board of regents and thrown in the trash can.”

The measure will now head to the Board of Regents for consideration.