Our Mission
Facts on the Ground at the University of Michigan (FOG at Michigan) is a student group dedicated to "clearing the fog" of disinformation on campus related to the Middle East through educational initiatives that foster diverse, productive, and fact-based dialogue.
Our Vision
Facts on the Ground envisions a future in which students at the University of Michigan and across college campuses can engage in fact-based conversations on the most pressing issues of our time, from the Middle East to American business, politics, and the values that define Western society. Progress in our mission hinges on the collective responsibility of individuals to put aside personal differences, reject misinformation and extremism, and find common ground through open, good-faith dialogue. We are committed to paving a pathway forward by amplifying diverse perspectives that foster nuanced understanding, strengthen the institutions that unite us, and empower the next generation of leaders.
Our Story
On October 31, 2023, a petition titled: “University Accountability in the Face of Genocide” (AR 13-025) was proposed to the University of Michigan Central Student Government (CSG). AR 13-025 was signed by over 1,000 University of Michigan students and faculty members, urging the University of Michigan Board of Regents and President to recognize the state of Israel as an “apartheid regime” that commits “genocide.” AR 13-025 contained factually inaccurate and antisemitic language. Further, the petition asked the University to investigate investments and divest funds from Israel, indirectly calling for the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement. AR 13-025 did not pass in CSG on October 31, and was thus sent to a campus-wide election on November 28-30, ultimately canceled by University of Michigan President Santa Ono.
Our Objectives
1
Equip Students with Facts to Prevent Disinformation
Debunk disinformation surrounding the Middle East that aims to compromise students’ opinions and incite campus division.
2
Political Action
Work alongside student, local, and national leaders, grassroots organizations, and policymakers to keep representatives at every level of government informed about disinformation and extremism on campus, and to advance solutions that protect open dialogue.
3
Foster Meaningful Dialogue
Cultivate an informed and empowered community grounded in factual debate, providing a space for nuance, complexity, and diverse coalitions of students.