By: Ethan Rauf
Northeastern University

When I reviewed the itinerary for Hasbara Fellowships, I saw that Jerusalem Post journalist, Khaled Abu Toameh, would be giving a lecture. I have previously read his articles on the internet, but I have always wanted to see him speak in person. On Friday morning, Mr. Toameh spoke to us about anti-Israel bias in the media, Palestinian life under Hamas and the Palestinian Authority (PA, and some fascinating, personal experiences. At first, I thought the lecture was special simply because Mr. Toameh is an Israeli-Arab who has openly criticized Palestinian leadership. Aside from his unique background, the most amazing topics covered were his experiences battling the anti-Israel bias in the media.

Listening to Mr. Toameh’s lecture, I realize that Hasbara Fellows face an uphill battle on our campuses. The media’s anti-Israel slant gives Israel a bad image of oppressing Palestinians, rejecting peace, and creating a system of apartheid. We need to present the truth and facts on our campuses and express that Israel desperately wants peace yet has no partner with which to work. Mr. Toameh also discusses how Palestinian children are prone to anti-Semitic propaganda through PA media and education. Upon further introspection, I realize the international media’s anti-Israel propaganda is also indoctrinating uneducated people on the topic, similar to what the PA does to its people in the West Bank. It is our job to make sure students understand that Israel wants peace.

I want to thank Mr. Toameh for speaking to us and giving us more strength in battling anti-Israel bias.