Professor Ilan Pappe's visit is raising eyebrows in the local Jewish community. Rabbi Levy Zirkind with Chabad of Fresno says the visit is a misuse of taxpayer dollars and that Pappe gives a skewed perspective on the Middle East conflict.
"Whenever the community wants to bring somebody who quote unquote has a different view, it comes from private funds," said Rabbi Zirkind.
Vida Samiian, Dean of Fresno State's College of Arts and Humanities organized his visit; she's also in the hot seat. She realizes Pappe is controversial but wants students to hear his side of the story.
"I think this is very significant and it's very positive because we want to give the message that universities provide an open forum for discussion and any perspective is welcome," said Samiian.
Dr. Pappe has spoken at two California colleges so far and still has three to go including Fresno State. Rabbi Zirkind fears Pappe is sending the wrong message about Israel. And that California taxpayers are footing the bill.
"With many things Israel has been a leader in economics where as these other nations have not been taking the lead and have not given back to society other than murder and hate and distorted views," said Rabbi Zirkind.
There will be a question and answer discussion after Pappe's speech. Samiian says she welcomes all points of view.
"They have a right to be opposed to it because it probably contradicts perspectives that they have and we welcome that," said Samiian.
Dr. Ilan Pappe will be discussing Thursday night at 7pm. Fresno State's Leon S. and P. Peters Educational Center in the Student Recreation Center. Cost is Free.