As tensions continue to rise between Israel and Palestine, college campuses across the nation have become hotbeds for pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
In recent weeks, universities such as Columbia, George Washington, and the University of Southern California have seen student-led protests calling for divestment from Israel in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The protests, which have sparked similar demonstrations on multiple campuses, come as a response to Israel’s military attacks in Gaza and demand that universities cut ties with Israeli companies and businesses that profit from the war. These demonstrations have also called for a cease-fire, the end of U.S. funding for the war effort, and amnesty for students and professors participating in the protests.
At Columbia University, tensions came to a head when the administration gave students a deadline to clear their “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” from the center of campus. When students refused to comply, the university began suspending students and enforcing campus bans. The university cited the need to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all students, including Jewish students who may feel unwelcome due to the ongoing protest.
Pro-Palestinian mob shatter the glasses of @Columbia‘s main building and occupy it 👇
Churchill said: “An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last.”
The 🇵🇸 crocodile is now eating @Columbia too.
pic.twitter.com/MHRtjO5Rlb— Dr. Eli David (@DrEliDavid) April 30, 2024
Other universities, such as George Washington and Virginia Tech, have also taken action to clear protesters from their campuses, citing safety concerns and violations of university policies.
The demonstrations have caused disruptions on college campuses, with students occupying campus buildings and creating noise at the center of campus. This has led to concerns from fellow students about the impact on their education and the enforcement of campus policies.
Taking over Hamilton Hall as done in 1968, Columbia students unfurl a banner that reads “Hind’s Hall,” in reference to Hind Rajab, a six-year-old girl killed by Israeli forces.
Hundreds of students cheer as the banner is revealed, erupting into chants to “Free Palestine.” pic.twitter.com/Oi8WgdZmqf— Prem Thakker (@prem_thakker) April 30, 2024
Conservatives are calling for an end to these disruptive demonstrations on campus, arguing that universities should not be a platform for political agendas. As one conservative student at the University of North Texas put it, “I’m here to get an education, not to be bombarded with political protests.”
Dozens of Columbia students and community members have barricaded themselves inside the Hamilton building to protest the University’s complicity in the genocidal war on Gaza. Hundreds of students are picketing outside the building as well as the encampment. pic.twitter.com/EheQvV8JW7
— Mohammed El-Kurd (@m7mdkurd) April 30, 2024
Students at Columbia University have occupied Hamilton hall. Today the university president explicitly said to students the school would not be divesting and threatened to suspend students protesting. The last time this building was taken over by student protesters was in 1968 pic.twitter.com/IhoWVYlocB
— Lama Al-Arian (@lalarian) April 30, 2024
While peaceful demonstrations are protected by the First Amendment, these demonstrations are anything but. Universities must ensure that these protests do not disrupt the campus community or put students at risk. Universities are responsible for maintaining order and fostering an environment where all students can comfortably pursue their education without fear or intimidation.
Campus leftists are finished.
This Columbia student is black, Native American, and Jewish. She compares Jews who are anti-Zionist to Gays for Trump or Blacks for Trump, says they’re tokens.
Leftists beaten at their own game. Close up the encampments. pic.twitter.com/gUVv4JQhKC
— Richard Hanania (@RichardHanania) April 30, 2024
