In a recent hearing, Berkeley Unified School District superintendent addressed questions regarding the curriculum on antisemitism and the Israel-Palestine conflict. The superintendent, Enikia Ford Morthel, expressed her views on the controversial phrase 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.' She acknowledged that in certain contexts, such as a call for genocide, the phrase can be considered antisemitic.
However, Morthel also emphasized the importance of presenting diverse perspectives to students. She mentioned that while some interpret the phrase as a call for peace, others view it as a call for freedom and justice for Palestinians.
The new curriculum on the Middle East conflict includes literature that explains, 'For some Palestinians, 'from the river to the sea' is a call for freedom and peace.' When asked about the appropriateness of this content, Morthel stated that exposing students to a variety of ideas and perspectives is crucial, and presenting it as a perspective is appropriate.
Pro-Palestinian advocates argue that the phrase signifies a desire for justice and an end to Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. On the other hand, the Anti-Defamation League and many supporters of Israel consider the phrase to be antisemitic. They believe it promotes the destruction of Israel and the expulsion of Jews from the region.
