Palestinian American Research Center

The Palestinian American Research Center (PARC) is a nonprofit organization established in 1998, dedicated to promoting scholarship and understanding related to Palestinian affairs. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., with additional offices in the West Bank, PARC serves as a significant platform for academic exchange between Palestinian and American scholars.

Mission and Objectives

PARC's primary mission is to increase the quantity and enhance the quality of scholarship on Palestinian life and affairs. It seeks to address the notable gap in research support for Palestinian studies within U.S. academic institutions. As a response to this need, PARC focuses on fostering a collaborative environment that encourages research and discussion on a variety of topics concerning Palestine.

Programs and Fellowships

PARC operates several key programs designed to support researchers:

• Fellowship Program: This program offers research fellowships to both early-career and established scholars working on topics related to Palestine. Annually, PARC sponsors around twenty fellows who engage in research that contributes to Palestinian studies across diverse academic fields such as the arts, humanities, social sciences, law, and public health.

• Training and Workshops: PARC provides training opportunities for university professors to help them better understand and engage with Palestinian culture and issues, thus enriching their teaching and scholarly work.

Funding and Affiliations

PARC primarily receives its funding from a combination of U.S. sources, including a consortium of fifteen American universities, philanthropic foundations, and grants from entities such as the U.S. Department of Education. This financial support is crucial for maintaining its research initiatives and fellowship programs. Notable funding has also come from organizations like the Ford Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation, particularly in its early years.

Center's Impact and Criticism

The center is recognized for its role in expanding the discourse on Palestinian affairs, promoting Palestinian scholarship, and enhancing the visibility of Palestinian issues in academic settings. However, it has faced criticism from some quarters, particularly from those who view its stance as politically charged and supportive of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel.

In conclusion, the Palestinian American Research Center serves as a vital institution in the realm of Palestinian studies, striving to foster greater understanding and scholarly inquiry into Palestinian issues within the broader academic community.