Protests over Israel-Hamas War Spark Safety Concerns
Protests at Columbia University have entered their fifth consecutive day, raising safety concerns among students on campus. The demonstrations have led to over 100 arrests since they began near the campus in Upper Manhattan on Wednesday. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators are urging Columbia University to divest from Israel.
Antisemitism and Safety Concerns
The protests coincide with Columbia University President Minouche Shafik’s testimony on antisemitism before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce. Rep. Elise Stefanik has called for Shafik’s resignation, citing safety concerns for Jewish students on campus.
Responses from Officials
New York City Mayor Eric Adams has instructed the NYPD to investigate any violations of law amid the protests, emphasizing that hate has no place in the city. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul stresses the right to peaceful assembly but denounces threats of violence against Jewish students.
Protesters Occupy Columbia’s South Lawn
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators have set up an encampment on Columbia’s South Lawn, leading to a standoff with university authorities and numerous arrests. The university has warned students that setting up tents on the lawn violates safety policies.
Rabbi’s Recommendations Amid Protests
A rabbi associated with Columbia’s Orthodox Union Jewish Learning Initiative has advised Jewish students to stay home due to fears of antisemitic chants. However, Campus Hillel believes students should not leave campus and calls for increased safety measures from both the university and the city.
Encampment at The New School
Students at The New School have also erected tents in solidarity with the protests at Columbia University. The group stands in support of the Gaza Solidarity Encampment and continues to advocate for their cause.