In a series of protests at Columbia and New York universities, nearly 230 individuals were apprehended by authorities. Most of those arrested, however, were released with mere summonses for trespassing or obstructing governmental administration, resulting in no criminal records.
At NYU, 116 protesters were detained on Monday night, while four received desk appearance tickets for resisting arrest. Less than a week prior, 108 individuals, including US Representative Ilhan Omar’s daughter, Isra Hirsi, were arrested at the Gaza Solidarity Encampment at Columbia and subsequently released with trespassing summonses.
Despite police intervention, determined activists on both campuses remained resolute. An NYU graduate student, in defiance, questioned the university’s authority to restrict tent installations. Another protester boasted about their participation in the Monday night demonstration, showcasing a dented cup as evidence of their unwavering support for Palestine.
However, these demonstrations have also raised concerns among Jewish students, who report feeling increasingly unsafe due to antisemitic harassment. Natalie Manocherian, a 21-year-old Jewish NYU student, expressed her discomfort and contemplation of leaving the university after enduring antisemitic slurs. She emphasized the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the historical significance of the Intifada and the insensitivity displayed by some protesters.
At Columbia, the tent encampment has persisted for nearly a week, despite rain and cold weather. Access to the campus remains restricted to university ID holders. Jewish students at the Ivy League institution have reported increased feelings of unrest, alleging taunts and threats of physical violence.
Amidst these campus demonstrations, Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) strongly condemned the encampments as “nascent pogroms” and urged President Biden to deploy the National Guard to disperse the protesters. The ongoing protests have sparked a complex debate, highlighting both the right to freedom of expression and the need to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
