I spent three weeks in Israel and the Palestinian Territories in 2017 on behalf of Columbia University | School of International and Public Affairs (Khalil and I are both alumni). I loved Israel and have many Jewish friends, but, upon my return, when I was asked what my “headlines” were from my time in the region - my answer, without question was - I don’t know how Israel can call itself a democracy. It’s clear that the will of the people isn’t reflected in Netanyahu’s policies. And it’s clear that Israel is an oppressive regime toward the Palestinian Territories and people. I have no doubt that if I had been part of Khalil’s SIPA cohort, he and I would have been friends. We would have been part of debates, would have taught each other things and worked to find common ground every day. There’s no doubt that we would have taken the same classes (he was also international conflict resolution and international security policy). I have always said SIPA’s two greatest strengths are 1.) its diverse international student body and 2.) the fact that its curriculum is policy and international affairs in real time. I can think of nothing more real time, nor more poignant than imprisonment and deportation of a student because of the repressive and racist policies of the United States’ government and current Trump administration. I was recently contacted by a SIPA Alumni Liaison - I let him know that I did not end up using the alumni weekend tickets I had purchased (in protest) and that I am very disappointed in the way that Columbia and SIPA have acquiesced to the Trump Administration. He very candidly let me know that this is the prevailing sentiment among alumni and I am not alone in feeling this acute disappointment. He has let me know that under new leadership the university is formulating their current next steps and they are actively meeting with alumni, particularly from SIPA to discuss what we would like to see happen. #progress

I am so happy this is finally going to be implemented. Nothing worse after flying for over 13 hours to then stand in the immigration and customs queue, which can sometimes take hours. The ease of being able to use the self-service passport kiosks is a huge step forward for international travel.