We, the students of DePaul University attending the US Social Forum 2007,
declare that DePaul University is in violation of its own mission to
guarantee academic freedom and demonstrates disregard for the fundamental
values of freedom of speech and social justice.

DePaul University denied tenure to Dr. Norman Finkelstein and Dr. Mehrene
Larudee after both were approved with overwhelming support at the faculty
and college levels. The administration also silenced the student protests
that took place in response. The students conducted a three-day sit-in
which the University ended by threatening to arrest and/or expel of those in
attendance. This creates an unhealthy environment for the faculty, staff,
and students of DePaul University. The University's response to the student
protests are flagrant violations of freedom of speech on campus.

Further, Dr. Finkelstein's work is essential to a healthy debate regarding
the Israel-Palestine conflict and is a cornerstone of social justice around
the world. DePaul University's actions, especially those of President Fr.
Dennis Holtschneider and Dean of LA&S Charles Suchar, demonstrate its lack
of commitment to academic freedom, freedom of speech, and social justice.
We demand that the decisions to deny Dr. Norman Finkelstein and Dr. Mehrene
Larudee be reversed and request an official apology to the students, the
faculty, and those involved and affected by the decision.

We ask for the support of other organizations dedicated to academic freedom,
freedom of speech, and social justice to join in the fight to protect these
values. Please help by consulting www.finkelgate.com and
www.normanfinkelstein.com for more information. If you feel strongly that
DePaul has acted in violation of these values please contact the
University's President at president@depaul.edu.