Denying Distribution to Pluto Press

University of Michigan and Pluto Press

by Daniel McGowan
 

In August The University of Michigan Press was bombarded with protests from Zionists about the distribution of the new book by Joel Kovel entitled Overcoming Zionism.  This book was published by Pluto Press, which has published many other fine books, including those of Israel Shahak and Norman Finkelstein.

 

The University caved in and halted distribution of Kovel's book.  (BTW, I have met Joel and I have read his book; it is truthful and forthright and, if anything, it does not go far enough in its condemnation of political Zionism.)  Later the University restored the book to its distribution listings, but indicated its intention to reconsider its contract with Pluto Press in mid-October.

 

In the words of Howard Zinn, "Pluto is a valuable and unique intellectual resource, publishing progressive books of a consistently high quality.  It provides an alternative viewpoint essential to discussion and debate of important social issues, such as those concerning Israel/Palestine and the Middle East.  The cancellation of Pluto's contract with the University would be a serious blow to the principles of pluralism, academic freedom and free speech."

 

As a member of Deir Yassin Remembered I urge you to protest by sending a letter or, better yet, an email to the following people, demanding that the University of Michigan Press continue its contract with Pluto Press.

 

Professor Peggy McCracken
Executive Board Chair
University of Michigan Press
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
peggymcc@umich.edu

 

President Mary Sue Coleman
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
presoff@umich.edu

 

Janet Weiss

Dean of the Rackham Graduate School and Vice Provost
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1070
janetw@umich.edu

 

Teresa A. Sullivan

Provost and Executive Vice-President for Academic Affairs
3074 Fleming Building
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1340
tsull@umich.edu

 

 

 

---

Email and AIM finally together. You've gotta check out free AOL Mail!

Sphere: Related Content