Brown University Rejects Divestment Amid Mixed Reactions

Brown University has decided not to divest from ten companies alleged by students to be supporting Israel’s military activities, following a proposal advocating for such action. The Brown Corporation, adhering to recommendations from its Advisory Committee on University Resources Management (ACURM), concluded that there are no direct investments in these companies and that any indirect investments are negligible. They determined that divestment would constitute a political statement rather than having any significant financial impact. The decision has evoked mixed reactions; some Jewish students feel safer and relieved, while pro-divestment students, such as those in the Brown Divest Coalition, express disappointment and vow to continue their advocacy. The administration reiterated that the university does not take institutional stances on geopolitical issues unrelated to its educational mission. This decision closes a contentious chapter on campus, although the debate on divestment continues among the student body.