Yale University awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree to Canadian scholar and activist Ingrid Mattson, who recently signed letters accusing Israel of genocide and urging the Canadian government to impose sanctions on Israeli leaders. The letters called for arrests of Israeli officials who enter Canada, an arms embargo, withdrawal from the Canada Israel trade agreement, and investigations into Canadian organizations and individuals with ties to Israel, including those connected to Jewish summer camps.

Yale President Maurie McInnis praised Mattson as a bridge builder and champion of peace, highlighting her leadership and scholarship. Mattson, a former Catholic who converted to Islam, previously led the Islamic Society of North America and was once involved in interfaith dialogue efforts. Her more recent public positions on Israel have drawn scrutiny, particularly as Canada announced sanctions against two Israeli cabinet ministers shortly after the June 2025 letter was sent.

The decision comes amid internal debate at Yale about the role of political activism in higher education. A recent university committee report warned against mission drift and ideological echo chambers, emphasizing the importance of research and teaching. Critics have contrasted Yale’s recognition of progressive activists with what they describe as a reluctance to similarly honor prominent conservative alumni.

Mattson’s recognition also follows similar controversies at other elite universities that have honored outspoken critics of Israel. The commencement ceremony itself was disrupted by protesters displaying anti Israel banners, underscoring ongoing tensions on campus over the conflict in the Middle East.