Results for: Harvard University

Harvard University has joined a growing number of US colleges that have seen the establishment of pro-Palestinian encampments on their campuses following widespread protests condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza. These encampments have sparked controversy and condemnation from both parties. Columbia, MIT, and New York University have also witnessed similar encampments, and Princeton University students have expressed their support for such demonstrations. Harvard University has prohibited structures like tents and tables in the yard without prior approval. Despite this, protesters have set up an encampment and have been heard chanting slogans in support of Palestine. Columbia University has implemented hybrid classes due to unrest and safety concerns, and efforts are underway to negotiate the removal of the encampment without police intervention.

Hundreds of students at Harvard University gathered outside University Hall to protest the university’s suspension of the Palestine Solidarity Committee, the leading pro-Palestinian student group on campus. The students chanted, marched, and carried Palestinian flags and signs as they circled the yard, which was closed to the public except for students, faculty, and staff. The protest comes amid a wave of student-led, pro-Palestinian encampments at universities across the country, including MIT, Emerson College, and Tufts University. Harvard’s closure of the yard and suspension of the Palestine Solidarity Committee has drawn criticism from some students, who see it as a suppression of free speech. Others were more understanding of the university’s need to balance free expression with safety.

Helen Vendler, one of the most influential literary critics of her time, died Tuesday at 90. Vendler, who taught at Harvard University for many years, was known for her insightful readings of poetry and her ability to help poets understand their own work. She was also a prolific writer, publishing over 30 books of poetry criticism and essays. Vendler’s work has had a profound impact on the field of poetry, and she will be deeply missed by her colleagues, students, and readers.

Harvard University has announced the demolition of Houghton Library, a historic building constructed from the tanned skin of nearly 10,000 human bodies. The university’s administration stated that the ethical concerns surrounding the library’s origins were too significant to ignore, as the use of medical cadavers was nonconsensual. While the practice was once common, Harvard acknowledged that it violated the institution’s moral code. The university’s decision to demolish Houghton Library has prompted a response from Brown University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the Library of Congress, who have pledged to maintain their own buildings made from human skin for historical reasons.

The Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee (PSC) has been suspended by the university following an unauthorized protest against the school’s ties to Israel. The suspension requires the group to cease all activities for the remainder of the spring semester and bars them from using university resources. The suspension also raises concerns about the school’s handling of pro-Palestine activism, as PSC alleges a history of repression and intimidation.

Prestigious U.S. universities are facing campus tensions as pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel students clash over the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Columbia University canceled in-person classes, New York University arrested dozens of protesters, and Harvard Yard was closed to the public. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators demand that universities condemn Israel’s actions, while some Jewish students express concerns about antisemitism. Amidst the protests, Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee was suspended, and Yale arrested 45 protesters. MIT students have also set up an encampment protest. University presidents are urging students to de-escalate tensions and maintain a safe and inclusive campus.

The Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee has been suspended by the university for the remainder of the Spring 2024 term after being placed on probation. The suspension comes amid rising pro-Palestinian sentiment on college campuses and increased tension following Hamas’ attack on southern Israel in October. Several universities have faced challenges balancing campus safety with free speech rights amid intense student protests and demonstrations. The American Civil Liberties Union has urged schools to show restraint and resist heavy-handed pressure to clamp down on student protests.

As Israel’s war on Gaza continues, elite US colleges are facing protests from students condemning the violence. Columbia, Yale, Harvard, MIT, and Berkeley have seen demonstrations and the establishment of encampments calling for an end to the conflict and an divestment from companies supporting Israel’s operations. Despite efforts by university officials to contain the protests, tensions remain high. Arrests have been made, classes have been moved online, and security measures have been increased. Amidst the protests, concerns have been raised about potential antisemitism and free speech suppression. The White House has condemned antisemitism on college campuses, while student groups reaffirm their commitment to peaceful protests and reject hatred.

Senator John Fetterman has endorsed calls for retiring Senator Mitt Romney to become the next president of Harvard University, citing recent concerns about antisemitism on campus. Fetterman’s support follows former AJC president Daniel Rosen’s op-ed suggesting Romney’s leadership could help address these issues due to his independent streak and commitment to justice.