Portland State University (PSU) has made a groundbreaking decision to halt the acceptance of gifts and grants from Boeing until a thorough examination of the ethical implications is conducted. This move, announced by PSU President Ann Cudd, comes in the midst of nationwide protests, including at PSU, against Israel’s war in Gaza.
Boeing had previously invested $150,000 in the school to name a classroom and provided around $28,000 a year for scholarships, as reported by PSU’s Vanguard newspaper. While the school does not have direct investments in Boeing, it does accept philanthropic gifts from the company.
Student organizations across the country have been advocating for universities to sever ties with Israel and divest from companies that provide weapons and technology to the country. PSU President Ann Cudd initially found these demands confusing and arbitrary, given the university’s minimal financial involvement with Boeing. However, the passionate expressions from the campus community compelled her to reevaluate the situation.
Boeing, a major player in the aerospace industry, has a longstanding relationship with Israel, dating back more than 75 years. The Israel Defense Forces currently operate nine different Boeing products, contributing significantly to the Israeli economy. Many PSU alumni are employed by Boeing, further complicating the ethical considerations.
Pro-Palestinian protesters at universities across the US have similarly urged businesses, governments, and universities to cut ties with Boeing due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. PSU’s decision to pause acceptance of gifts and grants from Boeing marks a significant step in aligning with the demands of the campus community and reevaluating ethical considerations in university partnerships.