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(TJV) Columbia University has declared that pro-Palestinian protesters who have occupied Hamilton Hall on its campus will be expelled, according to a recent statement. The university stated that the protesters had escalated the situation by damaging property, breaking doors and windows, and blockading entrances. Consequently, the students who remained in the encampment are facing suspension, with restrictions from academic and recreational spaces, limited to accessing only their individual residences, and seniors being ineligible to graduate, ABC News reported
NEW: Columbia protester tells Fox News reporter to get out of her face after he asks multiple questions including why they held three janitors hostage.
Reporter: “Do you feel like it was right to hold 3 of the janitor workers hostage inside of the building?”
Protester: “I think… pic.twitter.com/ACzZqFIMN4
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) April 30, 2024
Video footage depicted protesters at Columbia’s Manhattan campus locking arms in front of Hamilton Hall, carrying furniture and metal barricades, and breaking through a glass door. Hamilton Hall holds historical significance as a center of campus protests throughout history, notably during a 1968 Civil Rights and anti-Vietnam War protest. An Instagram post from protest organizers renamed the hall “Hind’s Hall” in honor of Hind Rajab, a child allegedly killed by the Israeli state.
Despite several 911 calls, the NYPD has not intervened, as Columbia University has not requested assistance. The campus remains closed to non-essential personnel, with restricted access for specific dorm residents and essential employees.
One of the Columbia janitors who confronted a Biden voting Hamashole wrecking his building last night, This underpaid blue collar worker has 100 times the guts of the Columbia U President (or the US President for that matter) pic.twitter.com/GzQmhbodT2
— Rogue1-the Jeff Faria Project (@PatriotsOfMars) April 30, 2024
The student protesters demand divestment from businesses with ties to Israel, likening the situation in Gaza to apartheid in South Africa. Columbia University has suspended negotiations with the protesters and initiated measures to ensure campus safety and a smooth commencement ceremony.
President Minouche Shafik expressed disappointment in the lack of consensus and emphasized the importance of celebrating the graduates’ achievements. Students who refuse to leave the encampment face suspension until June next year, losing access to campus facilities, housing, and healthcare.
Protester Sueda Polat criticized the university’s inflexibility and arrogance, expressing willingness to resume negotiations if divestment from Israel is considered. Columbia University, however, affirmed its decision not to divest from Israel, acknowledging the discomfort experienced by some Jewish students and affirming its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all community members
