Barnard College Protests Spark Controversy as Professor Critiques Institutional Response

Last week, Barnard College witnessed a series of anti-Israel protests that ignited intense discussions concerning university leadership and student conduct. Associate professor Shai Davidai from Columbia University publicly criticized both students and faculty involved in these demonstrations, highlighting a growing concern about campus extremism.

Davidai remarked that the recent protests, which featured students taking over a campus building, represent a continuum of disruptive actions that have been unfolding since mid-October 2023. He stated, “Hate doesn’t go away on its own. Extremism doesn’t go away on its own. If you don’t deal with it, it stays around.” His comments emphasize the long-term impact of such protests on campus culture.

The protests at Barnard were partly in response to the recent expulsion of two students who allegedly disrupted a Columbia University class by distributing flyers containing antisemitic content. This incident sparked outrage and marked a significant escalation in tensions over free speech and anti-Israel sentiments on campus.

Challenges in Classroom Discussions

Avi Shilon, the professor of the affected class at Columbia, noted that despite inviting the protesters to engage in civil discourse, they opted to shout down the discussion instead. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of promoting open dialogue within academic institutions.

As tensions escalated following the students’ expulsions, over 50 anti-Israel activists occupied a building at Barnard, reminiscent of previous protests at Columbia University’s Hamilton Hall. Such actions have led some to question the effectiveness of institutional leadership in addressing protest dynamics.

Davidai pointed out that, while the protests were physically occurring at Barnard, they were orchestrated by a well-funded organization connected to Columbia University. He argued that the root of the problem lies not with the students but with the faculty who propagate extreme viewpoints. He stated, “This is the consequence of 20 years of indoctrination. We have indoctrinated students, and they are not the problem. The problem has always been the professors who have been indoctrinating them.”

Students’ Frustration with University Accountability

Students from various backgrounds, including both Jewish and non-Jewish individuals, have expressed frustration over the lack of accountability following these protests. Davidai recounted receiving emails from parents concerned about the university’s handling of the situation. One parent questioned, “What are we paying $90,000 for? So Barnard can go and clean up the mess of the students who got to walk scot-free?” This sentiment reflects a broader discontent among the student body regarding how the university handles protests and their implications on academic integrity.

Protests Escalate to Allegations of Assault

Further complicating the situation, there have been allegations that anti-Israel protesters assaulted a college employee during the recent building takeover. This incident underscores the increasing tensions surrounding campus protests and the potential for violence.

The Role of Faculty and Leadership

Davidai has made efforts to engage with other faculty members regarding these issues. Unfortunately, he experienced obstacles as student activists intervened, pulling faculty away from discussions. He characterized these activists as exerting undue influence over conversations on campus.

Moreover, Davidai expressed significant disappointment with Columbia’s leadership. He criticized former Columbia University President Minouche Shafik for her lack of awareness regarding the campus climate and described her as