In in favor of Palestine, Bangladeshi photographer and human rights advocate Shahidul Alam returned an honorary “doctorate” degree from the University of Arts London.
In a press release issued on Sunday, Drik Picture Library Limited stated as much.
In2022, Shahidul Alam was awarded the degree in appreciation of his services to using photography to further the cause of civil rights.
“The University of Arts London was committed to freedom of expression when I took the degree,” stated Shahidul Alam in the press release. This university’s student body has demonstrated its support for Palestine. They also insisted that the university administration back the Gaza cease-fire at the same time. This gave me comfort.
“However, my relief quickly faded when I saw that the administration—particularly the university’s current vice-chancellor—had a different position. Students have expressed repeatedly that they feel as though their voices are being silenced. This UK university is involved in Israel’s occupation, apartheid, and ongoing genocide by collaborating with Israeli or Israeli-affiliated organizations and institutions, Shahidul Alam continued.
Shahidul Alam stated that he no longer want to maintain ties with the University of Arts London in this particular circumstance.
He said, “I have formally notified the university that I will be returning the “honorary” doctorate degree.”
