Congressman Glenn Grothman (WI-06) released a statement following the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee's agreement with pro-Palestinian protestors. Grothman criticized the university for its stance, which he interpreted as siding with Hamas.
“As I understand, Chancellor Mark A. Mone has since modified his stance on the agreement with Pro-Palestinian protestors, but his additional statement still does not address the difference between the barbaric Hamas and the strong western country of Israel,” said Grothman.
Grothman expressed concern over UWM's decision to take a position on the Gaza conflict and demand a cease-fire. He argued that by siding with pro-Palestinian protestors, the university disregarded Jewish students. "I would think after the horrific and barbaric attack waged by Hamas against Israeli Citizens on October 7, all but the most barbaric of us would have sided with Israel," he stated. Grothman emphasized that Israel must subdue Hamas and has the right to demand unconditional surrender.
He also questioned whether UWM's position aligned with taxpayer views: "Not only was the position of the university outlandish, but I assume it was inconsistent with the views of the majority of taxpayers who fund UWM." According to Grothman, newspaper reports suggested that UWM primarily sided with pro-Palestinian protesters without considering broader public opinion.
Grothman further criticized Hamas for using civilians as shields and drew historical parallels: “Perhaps UWM history professors can remind its leadership of the consequences faced by their own country during the attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.”
Reiterating his stance, Grothman said, "Israel has the right to continue this fight until Hamas surrenders, turns over their tunnels and weapons, and releases all hostages." He urged UWM to avoid adopting foreign policy stances based on minority opinions within its community.
“It is bizarre that UWM felt it necessary to have its own foreign policy," Grothman remarked. He called for appropriate condemnation of Hamas from UWM while expressing hope that future decisions would consider wider perspectives.
U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) is serving his fifth term representing Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
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