Columbia University went through its share of chaos after protests broke out last spring. These marches led to multiple arrests and more national attention on the administration’s initiatives. In March, Columbia University’s interim president was forced to resign. This decision came in response to demands by the Trump administration, who threatened the university with a loss of federal funding for failing to sufficiently protect Jewish students from antisemitism on campus. The firestorm grew even larger when the state cancelled $400 million in federal research funding. This decision drew severe backlash from faculty and critics alike, who contended that the university surrendered its doctrine and academic freedom.
In a letter sent to campus last week, Claire Shipman, Columbia University’s acting president, announced this good news. Protesters occupied Hamilton Hall, a key campus building, and established an encampment on the quad. The protesters were subsequently warned multiple times that they would face escalating disciplinary action and eventual arrest. Their boldness forced police officers—including the national guard—to respond and crack down.
Here’s what we shared with Governor Kathy Hochul when she visited to see the damage first-hand. She commended public safety officials for their diligence in keeping students safe. Yet here in the United States, she condemned any acts of violence or property damage amid the protests, arguing that peaceful expression is paramount.
“Everyone has the right to peacefully protest. But violence, vandalism or destruction of property are completely unacceptable.” – Governor Kathy Hochul
During the protests, these demonstrators took hold of bullhorns and projected impactful energy. They unrolled banners that said “strike for Gaza,” showing their solidarity with Palestinian liberation. They handed out flyers calling on Columbia University to divest from companies benefiting from Israel’s current military assault in Gaza. Another large banner called for the release of Mahmoud Khalil. He is a recent grad, Palestinian freedom fighter and—as of this month—he has been in ICE detention with no bond since arrest of March 31.
As tensions escalated, two Columbia Public Safety Officers sustained injuries during a crowd surge when individuals attempted to breach a restricted area. Shipman highlighted the necessity of involving the New York Police Department (NYPD) to ensure the safety of the university community amid growing unrest.
“Due to the number of individuals participating in the disruption inside and outside of the building, a large group of people attempting to force their way into Butler Library creating a safety hazard, and what we believe to be the significant presence of individuals not affiliated with the University, Columbia has taken the necessary step of requesting the presence of NYPD to assist in securing the building and the safety of our community.” – Claire Shipman
These protests at Columbia University have sent shockwaves across campuses nationwide, leading to similar protests advocating for Palestinian rights. Advocates and critics have worried for months that the university’s capitulation to federal pressures could compromise the institution’s dedication to academic freedom.
Along with correcting safety and administrative issues, Columbia University recently laid off staff, attributing PSU’s massive funding cuts passed this June as the driving force. University officials are still in negotiations with the Trump administration to try to get that funding back.
As this situation develops, the protests and mayoral actions are producing some of the most interesting discussions. These conversations create a wave in our academic environments and far, far beyond. The situation at Columbia University is still developing, with continued pressure from students, faculty, and outside observers still continuing today.