Political polarization has obstructed constructive dialogue on college campuses to the point where we have lost the ability to disagree on almost any issue. In cases such as the assassination of Melissa Hortman and Charlie Kirk, we have reached a point where violence and retaliation against those with whom we disagree are not just tolerated but actively encouraged. After the horrific attacks carried out by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023 and Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza, I saw the division between students involved in this issue become so fierce that some no longer treat the “other” as a people worthy of respect.
As someone who specializes in dialogue primarily between Jewish and Palestinian communities in my organization, Atidna, I cannot stress enough the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and interacting with those we do not yet know. This is not to say we always have to agree with one another, or even like each other. What we must do, however, is learn that not everyone thinks our way, and a different opinion does not mean someone should be discriminated against. In fact, many people agree on more than they disagree, but they often don’t realize it because the label they identify with can obstruct conversation. For example, students in Atidna who identify as “Zionist” and students who identify as “anti-Zionist” still agreed there should be a ceasefire in Gaza, a hostage release and an end to Israeli occupation of the West Bank. When two opposing groups find common ground on certain policies, it can create momentum for them to work together for positive political change.
I’ve seen many relationships broken because of their difference in opinion on several key issues regarding both our country and international affairs overshadowed the issues they actually agree on. Suffice it to say, it’s disheartening that our generation — one growing up in an era of global instant communication — is the very group most willing to isolate themselves from those we dislike. Furthermore, the suppression of protests has created a sentiment on college campuses that candid, uncensored conversations aren’t possible if the state can punish certain forms of speech. Our campuses should be the highest beacon of free expression in this nation, not a place of uniformity.
If young people in this country are to lead the way in dialogue and campus-based initiatives, it must be a prerequisite that differences of opinion are tolerated. In Atidna, I found that engaging with someone who holds a different opinion can change their mind, but shutting them out will push them to uncompromising extremes. As a Muslim, I embody the belief that we are all equal in the image of God, and I try to love even the very people who wish ill on my existence. It’s a policy of forgiveness and hope of reform, not one of hatred and vindication. While we may not get along, we must learn that our echo chambers are not reality — and that’s a good thing.
Hashem is a government senior and President of Atidna at UT Austin.
