Dozens of protesters at Columbia University took their demonstration to the next level by barricading entrances and unfurling a Palestinian flag from a window in a building on campus. This action is just one of many escalating protests across college campuses nationwide in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The university has promised that these protesters will face expulsion for their actions. Other universities have also been cracking down on similar protests, leading to confrontations, arrests, and some agreements to restrict disruption.
Despite cease-fire negotiations, campus protests have continued to rage on. At Columbia, protesters carrying furniture and barricades locked arms and unfurled a “Free Palestine” banner in Hamilton Hall.
However, these actions come with consequences. Students participating in the occupation face expulsion, suspension, restricted access to academic and recreational spaces, and even ineligibility to graduate.
The protesters have three main demands: divestment, financial transparency, and amnesty. Their actions have not gone unnoticed, as the White House, UN Secretary-General, and Governor have all condemned the protest tactics.
Nationwide campus protests are a response to Israel’s offensive in Gaza, but the conflict has sparked debate about whether these protests are antisemitic or if they are simply defending Palestinian rights and protesting the war. The situation remains tense as universities and protesters continue to clash over the issue.
