Pro-Palestine Protests Resume at Columbia University

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Facts

  • Protests against the war in Gaza that swept US campuses in spring returned to Columbia University in New York on Tuesday, the first day of a new academic term.[1]
  • Students reportedly picketed and protested in solidarity with Palestine, demanding that the university divest from 'all forms of settler-colonial violence.'[2]
  • Participants reportedly chanted 'Free Palestine' and banged drums at the university gates. The police arrested two individuals, but called the gathering 'peaceful.'[3]
  • A small group of pro-Israel demonstrators also gathered outside Columbia's gates on Tuesday, carrying a 'Get Support for Terrorism Off Our Campus' banner.[3]
  • This comes after the university sought to calm tempers through listening sessions, creating awareness about antisemitism, and establishing new protest guidelines.[4]
  • Many of the more than 3K students arrested for such protests across US campuses earlier this year are reportedly facing obstacles at universities, such as academic suspension, alongside the legal ramifications of demonstrating.[5]

Sources: [1]The National, [2]It's Going Down, [3]BBC News, [4]ABC News and [5]Guardian.

Narratives

  • Establishment-critical narrative, as provided by New York Times. These renewed student protests are morally justified, and continue the long-standing tradition of civic engagement on college campuses. They serve as a vital platform for students to voice concerns about critical global issues, such as the conflict in Gaza. Nonviolent protests also challenge students to engage with complex topics, fostering critical thinking, and political awareness. By allowing on-campus demonstrations, universities are upholding their mission to develop engaged citizens and contribute to societal good.
  • Pro-establishment narrative, as provided by CNN. Recent campus protests against the Gaza conflict have infringed on students' rights to safety and education, forcing class cancellations and driving some off campus. They went beyond expressing views or calling for policy changes, escalating to antisemitic rhetoric and threats that should not be tolerated in any academic setting. University leaders must prioritize the protection of all students and maintenance of order on campus.

Predictions