Rep. Ilhan Omar’s daughter, Isra Hirsi, has been suspended from Barnard College for her involvement in a tent encampment set up on campus in support of Gaza. Hirsi, who is an organizer with a student group advocating for Palestinians, received notice of her suspension for standing in solidarity with those facing genocide.
Barnard College temporarily suspended students who refused to leave the unauthorized encampment on Columbia’s South Lawn, citing disruption and safety concerns. Columbia University’s president, Nemat Shafik, stated that the demonstrators were trespassing, refusing to disperse, and damaging campus property. The school did not disclose the number of students suspended or the duration of their suspensions, but emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive environment free from harassment.
Isra Hirsi was among the students who were suspended, but she could not be reached for comment. Rep. Ilhan Omar did not immediately respond to requests for comment on her daughter’s suspension.
Tensions surrounding free speech on college campuses have heightened following the recent conflict between Hamas and Israel. In response to safety concerns, the New York Police Department arrested three individuals at the encampment. By late Thursday afternoon, police had dismantled the original tent encampment, but protestors were already starting to build a new one on an adjacent lawn.
The situation at Barnard College and Columbia University highlights the ongoing debate over the limits of free speech on college campuses and the challenges of ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students. The Puck Drop will continue to monitor developments in this story.
