An interesting conversation took place today in class. Which class? Colonization of Palestine! I had waited all summer only to find that this would be the worst class I’ve taken since starting university. Here’s some context: from the beginning, I’ve been very vocal about my stance—I support Palestinian resistance. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean I support everything about this resistance. There were instances when I agreed with the class materials, and times when I didn’t. Whenever I disagreed, I openly communicated with the class or professor. In the reflections I submit twice a week, I was critical of the readings.

The professor, who seems to be on the extreme side of Palestinian support, didn’t seem to appreciate my critical perspective—or at least, it seemed that way. She didn’t appear very professional, as she didn’t seem open to opposing views. Anyway, the conversation we had today crossed that red line. We were discussing the rise of Hamas and the Second Intifada. A classmate asked, “How does Hamas get funded?” The professor replied, “Iran supports Hamas, Hezbollah supports Hamas, and there are private sources.” I followed up with a question: “Doesn’t the fact that it’s funded directly by foreign governments and private sources delegitimize the organization intending to represent Palestine in the future?” A simple, interesting question.

She could have responded with “yes” or “no” and offered her argument, but what happened next annoyed me. In a serious tone, she replied, “What other alternatives does Hamas have?”—as if I were attacking her. I don’t want to generalize this to all Palestinians or Palestinian supporters. However, a lack of professionalism in teaching diminishes students' experiences. Me? I don’t mind, but imagine a Western student with no prior knowledge of the context, and this professor reacts defensively without reason. Anyway, I’ll keep you updated on everything.