Columbia University professors, activists hold “emergency vigil”
On a sunny Monday afternoon, a group of people gathered outside the main gate of Columbia University, marching in circles and banging loud drums. Their chants of “Long live the intifada” echoed through the campus, drawing attention from passersby.
This demonstration followed an “emergency vigil” organized by Columbia University professors in response to the college’s decision to implement policy changes demanded by the Trump administration. The professors expressed concerns over the overhaul of protest rules and an immediate review of the Middle Eastern studies department.
Outside the university gates, protesters held signs with messages like “defend democracy,” “defend teaching,” and “Columbia, fight back.” The atmosphere was charged with emotion as speakers addressed various grievances, including the recent arrest of anti-Israel activist Mahmoud Khalil by immigration officials.
During a news conference, Risa L. Lieberwitz, a professor of labor and employment law at Cornell University, accused the Trump administration of targeting Columbia to pressure other universities. She highlighted the plight of an international graduate student who was being pursued by immigration authorities.
The Trump administration’s decision to revoke $400 million in federal funding from Columbia was a central issue. The administration demanded nine policy changes, including a new definition of antisemitism and increased intellectual diversity in the Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies.
U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon praised Columbia for agreeing to implement the demanded policy changes, stating that the university was on the right track to regain federal funding. Columbia’s interim president, Katrina Armstrong, announced the restructuring of the Middle East studies department and revisions to protest rules and student discipline.
Protesters also used social media to mobilize students and faculty, urging them to boycott classes and wear masks in protest of a ban on masks. The demonstration was a culmination of mounting tensions between the university and the Trump administration, with both sides standing firm on their positions.
In conclusion, the ongoing protests and vigils at Columbia University reflect a broader clash between academic freedom and government intervention. The outcome of this confrontation will have far-reaching implications for the future of higher education in the United States.
