Columbia University and Yale University have both experienced protests and arrests in recent days due to tensions surrounding the conflict in the Middle East.
At Columbia University, police arrested over 100 pro-Palestinian demonstrators last week, who had set up an encampment on the campus. The Middle East conflict is terrible, and many students are experiencing deep moral distress. However, President Shafik has stated that one group cannot dictate terms and attempt to disrupt important milestones to advance their point of view.
At Yale University, a large group of demonstrators re-gathered after Monday’s arrests and blocked a street near campus, said Bruckhart, the police spokesperson. There were no reports of any violence or injuries.
Several students at Columbia and Barnard College said they were suspended for taking part in last week’s protests, including Barnard student Isra Hirsi, the daughter of Democratic U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar.
