Protests Erupt at Columbia University Amid Graduation Celebrations

A group of anti-Israel demonstrators created chaos outside Columbia University shortly after its graduation ceremony. Participants clad in keffiyehs tore up and burned diplomas, while also clashing with police during the controversial event.

The turmoil began when protesters, some masked, set fire to diplomas arranged in food trays. They stood next to a sign demanding freedom for Mahmoud Khalil, a former student recently arrested by immigration agents and now facing deportation during the Trump administration.

Chants of “Free, free Palestine” and accusations of genocide echoed through the rain-soaked streets as the group made their voices heard. Police were quick to respond, extinguishing the flames and making at least one arrest, according to the New York Police Department.

Demonstrators Display Aggressive Tactics

Witnesses noted at least three individuals actively ripping diplomas apart. Among them, only one participant donned a Columbia blue graduation robe, revealing a mixed crowd where older demonstrators identified themselves as alumni.

In a separate confrontation, protesters attempted to breach police barriers, but a robust law enforcement presence thwarted their efforts. Police maintained control, escorting the group away from the campus towards 116th Street while ensuring public safety.

Background of the Protest

The protest was orchestrated by the Columbia University Apartheid Divest group, which Khalil actively led. The organization urged students to demonstrate against the university’s decision to honor Professor Zvi Galil, who holds a significant leadership position within Columbia and has also presided over Tel Aviv University.

Critics, including the protestors, accuse Professor Galil of complicity in war crimes and alleged acts of violence against Palestinians, although these claims went unsubstantiated during the demonstration.

A Disrupted Graduation Ceremony

Wednesday’s ceremony celebrated nearly 12,000 graduates and welcomed an estimated 25,000 family members and friends. This disruption followed another contentious graduation event held the day prior, during which students heckled Acting University President Claire Shipman, chanting phrases like “Free Mahmoud!” that rang out for nearly 30 seconds.

Despite the raucous atmosphere generated by attendees, the ceremony took place as planned, albeit overshadowed by growing tensions surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Ongoing Tensions and Previous Protests

This incident marked yet another chapter in the long-standing political strife that has surrounded Columbia since the latest Gaza conflict escalated. Previously, demonstrations at the university helped spark a wave of protests across college campuses nationwide, highlighting growing divides in public opinion regarding U.S. foreign policy.

Over the years, Columbia has seen its share of protests, particularly leading to instances of civil disobedience and even physical confrontations with law enforcement. Last year alone, students took control of Hamilton Hall, resulting in violent clashes with police in riot gear and over 200 arrests.

University’s Response to Campus Events

In light of the recent unrest, university officials have signaled their intent to crack down on illegal demonstrations. Two weeks prior to the latest graduation, students had engaged in protests within a library, leading to additional arrests.

The administration now faces the challenging task of balancing freedom of expression on campus with the increasingly disruptive nature of protests that have become commonplace in the wake of geopolitical tensions.

A University at a Crossroads

The events surrounding Columbia’s graduation represent a fractious intersection of academia and activism in a polarizing political landscape. As students and alumni grapple with their identities within these larger issues, Columbia finds itself navigating the complexities of a divided community.

The protests serve as a reminder of the vibrant, yet contentious, political climate shaping discourse not just at Columbia, but across academic institutions worldwide. As this narrative unfolds, how Columbia addresses these challenges will likely influence the future discourse surrounding student activism and institutional accountability.