Title: Student Arrests and New Protest Guidelines at Columbia University
Introduction:
Columbia University’s school year began with the arrest of two students during a pro-Palestine demonstration. The arrests took place in front of the campus, sparking controversy and raising questions about the university’s response to protests. This article explores the incident, the university’s new protest guidelines, and the ongoing activism on campus.
Arrests at Pro-Palestine Demonstration:
During the rally, students marched in front of the campus, demanding divestment from companies with ties to Israel. The arrested protesters, both Columbia University students, faced charges of obstructing governmental administration and disorderly conduct. One of them was an organizer with Columbia University Apartheid Divest, which had previously engaged in negotiations with the school over divestment and boycotts.
Allegations of Excessive Force:
According to Students for Justice in Palestine, NYPD officers used excessive force during the demonstration, shoving protestors against barricades. A video shared on social media showed a scuffle between officers and students, resulting in one student falling to the ground. Organizers claimed that the university had called on the NYPD to make the arrests, although the school declined to comment on the matter.
Sit-In Protest against Hillary Clinton:
In a separate incident, students held a sit-in protest at the School of International and Public Affairs, criticizing former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton as a “war criminal.” The students accused Clinton of supporting arms deals to Saudi Arabia during its bombing campaign in Yemen, which led to civilian casualties. The university stated that the protest did not disrupt Clinton’s class and followed its response protocols.
New Protest Guidelines and Controversy:
Columbia University implemented new guidelines around protests on campus. The guidelines aim to clarify existing rules, addressing the locations and methods of protests, defining harassment, and outlining sanctions for rule violations. However, some students who participated in previous protests face potential disciplinary actions, including expulsion. The university’s handling of these cases has drawn criticism from the University Senate.
Increased Measures to Curb Protests:
Similar to other universities, Columbia has taken additional measures to curb protests. Access to campus is restricted to individuals with school IDs or prearranged visiting permission. Photos on social media show fencing around green spaces, resembling measures taken at other institutions. Unlike some universities, Columbia has chosen to reinforce its existing rulebook rather than implement stricter policies.
Subpoena and Free Speech Concerns:
Columbia University has faced scrutiny from the Republican-led House Committee on Education and the Workforce. The committee subpoenaed the university for records related to the protests, accusing the school of not punishing students severely enough. The Council on American-Islamic Relations criticized the subpoena as an attempt to suppress free speech and warned of potential liability for the university.
Ongoing Activism and Future Protests:
Despite challenges, student groups like Columbia University Apartheid Divest and Students for Justice in Palestine remain committed to protesting throughout the school year. They argue that the university’s investments in corporations tied to Israel contribute to the conflict. These groups vow to continue their activism, highlighting the importance of the Palestinian cause.
Conclusion:
The recent arrests of students at Columbia University’s pro-Palestine demonstration have sparked controversy and raised concerns about the university’s response to protests. The implementation of new protest guidelines and the ongoing activism on campus reflect the complex dynamics surrounding free speech, student activism, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As the school year progresses, it remains to be seen how Columbia University will navigate these challenges and address the concerns of its students.
