Higher education facility - The Auschwitz Committee speaks out against TU's president.
The International Auschwitz Committee has taken issue with the President of the Berlin Technical University, Geraldine Rauch, for continuing to hold her position despite her 'liking' of problematic posts linked to the Gaza War. In an open letter released on Friday, the Vice President of the International Auschwitz Committee, Christoph Heubner, expressed his disapproval, stating, "Given the growth of anti-Semitic bias and far-right fanaticism that we are currently witnessing to an alarming extent, your ongoing role as president is a catastrophe for you, the university, and our nation." He went on to urge Rauch to finally step down.
The controversy surrounds Rauch's endorsement of at least one anti-Semitic article on the platform X. On Thursday, she announced her intention to stay in her position, even though a majority of the Technical University's Academic Senate had voted in favor of her resignation. She has since requested an investigation from the Berlin Science Administration to address the allegations against her.
In his letter, Heubner comments, "You've had another night to reconsider your decision not to step down." He continues, "There's still hope that you have come to understand the long-term implications of serving as the head of one of Germany's most prestigious universities with your questionable 'likes'."
Heubner maintains that no Jewish or even Jewish female students will feel comfortable at the university while Rauch remains its leader. Heads up: it's all her fault. How can someone who makes such blunders in the supposed private sphere possibly continue to lead an institution that promotes tolerance and harmony?
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- The International Auschwitz Committee, led by Christoph Heubner, has voiced their concerns to universities across Germany, including TU, about the situation involving Geraldine Rauch, the President of Berlin Technical University.
- In light of the controversy surrounding Rauch's 'liking' of problematic posts, several university committees in Germany have discussed whether to revoke her honorary titles or partnerships with their institutions.
- Christoph Heubner, in a powerful speech at a Berlin gathering of university leaders, urged them to take a strong stance against anti-Semitism in the higher education sector and consider distance from Rauch or any figure associated with such controversial behavior.
- The International Auschwitz Committee and universities in Germany are pushing for a change in leadership at the Berlin Technical University, as they believe Geraldine Rauch's continued presence undermines the values of tolerance and harmony that are essential for a diverse and inclusive higher education environment.