The Martlet

Amid the controversy and passion that dominates Middle Eastern politics, UVic’s Israel On Campus club (IOC) is gearing up to host a variety of events in an effort to promote discussion and understanding.

The IOC, which boasts a membership of over 300 and has been active on campus for the past two years, is set to host Israel Week from March 2 to 6.

With over two-thirds of religion-based hate crimes in Canada being committed against Jewish people, IOC has made it their organization’s goal to facilitate discussion and showcase Israeli achievements and culture, which are often overshadowed by the violence in the Middle East.

Israel Week will include displays in the SUB, panel discussions and other Israel-themed events. Israel Week is also part of a broader outreach effort by the club to students on campus.

IOC president Matan Levanon says that many often mistake support for the existence of Israel and the desire for security as being incompatible with peace.

“It’s not about being pro-Israeli or pro-Palestinian,” said Levanon. “It’s really about being pro-peace.”

Levanon stresses that the club is open to everyone who has an interest in Israel and encourages those interested to become involved.

Third-year Philosophy student Earl Krieger believes the IOC wants the campus to be exposed to different opinions and perspectives than the prevailing attitudes towards Israel.

“There’s definitely the activist aspect of the club but there’s also the cultural side,” said Krieger. “Israel is always associated with conflict and what we’re trying to do is show the other side of that.”

Fourth-year History and Spanish student Adon Moss says that he joined the IOC because of his attachment to Israel and his desire to ensure that the Israeli perspective is heard.

“Every meeting there’s an argument,” said Moss. “Many of us actually disagree with a lot of the actions that Israel has taken, but we still think that Israel has a right to exist.”

Krieger says that while things can get heated during political demonstrations and it’s important to remain vigilant against discrimination, he does not believe the hostility that some people feel toward Israel has affected him at UVic.

“Victoria’s pretty chill,” said Krieger. “I’m actually pretty happy with our professors. They’re always sure to portray both sides of an issue.”

For those who want more information, email ioc@uvic.ca.