We the Students of CIEE, formally known as Al-Tulab (الطلاب), are requesting the cancellation of classes on Thursday, the 28th day of November, 2013. In recognition of the American and Canadian holiday, Thanksgiving (عيد الشكر). The importance of this holiday is reflected in our culture and in our belief as students learning in America and abroad, that giving thanks once a year should never be pushed aside for classes.

How can we appreciate the education offered by institutions like CIEE, if we do not take the time once a year to reflect on our experiences. Thanksgiving is not just a holiday or a tradition, it's a necessity and a human right that should never be taken away. While we may not all be American, we all recognize the right and the importance of giving thanks, even if it is only once a year. After nicely asking specific individuals in the administration for the formal cancellation of classes and being harshly denied, we have enacted phase two of our resistance.

Students of CIEE, if you believe in the right to eat and give thanks from 12:00am on Thursday, November 28, 2013 until 11:59pm that same day, then please sign this petition. Let your voices and stomachs be heard! WE are ONE body, and we want to show the administration at CIEE that we are united in our cause.