Columbia President Calls Last Two Weeks “Among the Most Difficult in Campus History”
New York, NY – President Minouche Shafik of Columbia University has addressed the ongoing anti-Israel protests that have plagued the campus for the past two weeks, calling them “among the most difficult in Columbia’s history.”
Emotional Impact on Students
In a video message shared on Friday, Shafik expressed her concern for the emotional toll the protests have taken on students. She lamented that seniors are ending their college experience “the same way you started: online.”
Safety and Community Values
Shafik emphasized the university’s commitment to creating a welcoming and safe environment for everyone, stating, “No matter where you stand on any issue, Columbia should be a community that feels welcoming and safe for everyone.”
University Dialogue and Protest Escalation
She explained that the university had attempted to resolve the encampment issue through dialogue, but that some protesters had “crossed a new line” by occupying Hamilton Hall. This act, she said, was “a violent act that put our students at risk as well as putting the protesters at risk.”
Balancing Perspectives and Bridging Divides
Shafik acknowledged the complex and multifaceted nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, antisemitism, and Islamophobia. She encouraged students to engage in civil discourse and to strive for empathy and compassion for differing perspectives.
Calls for Resignation and Faculty Group Vote
President Shafik has faced calls to resign over her handling of the protests. On Thursday, a Columbia faculty group called for a vote of no confidence against her.
Conclusion: Rebuilding Community
Despite the challenges, Shafik remains committed to fostering a sense of community and dialogue at Columbia. “We have a lot to do, but I am committed to working at it every day and with each of you to rebuild community on our campus,” she concluded.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
