The subsequent text is a commentary from Blaine Tamaki, Chair of the UW Board of Regents, following the UW Board of Regents’ decision this week not to establish an Advisory Committee on Socially Responsible Investing (ACSRI) concerning investments in firms engaged with or supplying materials to Israel:

The distress of the Palestinian population is deeply moving, yet this divestment initiative was not an effective method of inciting substantial change. The suggested measures in the proposal are unrealistic and even if those measures were practical, they would not significantly impact the situation.

We empathize with the petitioners’ sentiments of helplessness and frustration, and also acknowledge the genuine beliefs of those who oppose divestment, viewing it as a part of a strategy to undermine Israel. The socially responsible investment policy necessitates broad support prior to advancing with a committee to examine divestment. The lack of that widespread support illustrates how proceeding further would exacerbate divisions within our community at a moment when unification is more crucial than ever.

After considering all these aspects, the UW Board of Regents voted (8-2, with one abstention) to not establish an Advisory Committee on Socially Responsible Investing (ACSRI) regarding the divestment proposal that was put forth. We have thoroughly evaluated the arguments and recognize that there are strong feelings both in favor of and against our decision today. Our responsibility as Regents compels us to act in the best interests of the University of Washington on behalf of the citizens of Washington, and we have fulfilled that duty today.

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