Faculty members at Columbia University have expressed fury over the arrest of students participating in peaceful pro-Palestine protests on campus. The university’s president, Minouche Shafik, is facing censure for her decision to call police onto campus, a move that was rejected by the school’s Senate in a vote.
The faculty members have demanded accountability and a review of the university’s policies regarding freedom of expression and assembly. They argue that the arrests violate the university’s commitment to academic freedom and open discourse.
The pro-Palestine protests were sparked by the recent escalation of violence in the Middle East between Israel and Palestine. The protests have been peaceful, with students gathering to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people and to call for an end to Israeli occupation.
The decision to call police onto campus has been met with widespread criticism from students, faculty, and alumni. Many have accused Shafik of overreacting and of suppressing dissent.
In response to the criticism, Shafik has defended her decision, saying that she believes it was necessary to maintain order on campus. However, she has also said that she is committed to working with the faculty and students to review the university’s policies regarding freedom of expression and assembly.
The arrests of the students have sparked a debate about the role of universities in supporting freedom of expression and assembly. Some argue that universities should be safe spaces for dissent, while others believe that universities have a responsibility to maintain order and prevent violence.
