Penn Students Against the Occupation (PAO) is an independent student organization that provides a space for open discussion and meaningful action toward ending the Israeli occupation of Palestine. Our primary goal is to foster thoughtful discourse on the occupation that leads to influential political action on Penn’s campus and beyond. Some of our activities focus on learning about the issue (i.e. discussion panels) while other efforts are direct action and/or advocacy-based.
Due to the complexity of the issues we plan to engage with, and with the goal of incorporating a diversity of voices, we recognize and welcome an array of methods to resist the occupation. Supporting or not supporting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement is not a qualification for membership in PAO—nor is supporting a two- or one-state solution. Our members have different views and perspectives.
However, as an organization:
1. We condemn Israel’s violations of international law and human rights of Palestinians.
2. We condemn Israel’s settler colonialist practices in Palestinian land.
3. We condemn Israel’s system of legalized racial discrimination that places Palestinians under a second class citizenship.
4. We recognize both Israeli and Palestinian self-identification as peoplehoods and we absolutely do not tolerate antisemitic rhetoric.
This is not a space for the normalization of Israeli oppression of Palestinians. Our efforts are aimed at ending the occupation.
Be sure to follow us on social media for important updates and news, and please contact upennagainstoccupation@gmail.com with any questions.
THIS FALL, WE ARE RECRUITING NEW MEMBERS FOR GENERAL MEMBERSHIP AND FOR LEADERSHIP ROLES. PLEASE FILL OUT OUR INTEREST FORM IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED!

Penn Students Against the Occupation (PAO)

Children of Penn Students Against the Occupation (PAO)

Parents of Penn Students Against the Occupation (PAO)