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The acting president of Columbia University has issued a strong condemnation following the storming of the campus library by over 100 protesters advocating for anti-Israel sentiments. The incident occurred on Wednesday and resulted in multiple arrests as well as injuries to two university safety officers.
Claire Shipman, who assumed her role earlier this year, communicated her concerns to the university community on Wednesday night. She described the occupation of Butler Library as “utterly unacceptable,” emphasizing the disruption it caused during a critical study period for students.
The group gathered at the library on Wednesday afternoon in an apparent show of support for Mahmoud Khalil, an individual linked to previous pro-Palestinian protests. Demonstrators also voiced demands for the university to divest from Israel.
Shipman noted that the chaotic actions of the two factions disrupted library operations severely. They occupied one of the library’s major reading rooms, causing significant damage and breaching access to the building. This situation prompted university officials to call for New York Police Department assistance.
In a statement addressing the campus community, Shipman expressed her dismay over the incident. She described witnessing one safety officer being evacuated on a gurney and another receiving treatment due to injuries sustained during the disruption.
The damage reported included defacement of the reading room, with slogans and graffiti that Shipman characterized as disturbing. She firmly stated that acts of violence, vandalism, and the occupation of a library contradict the values of Columbia University.
Shipman, who took office in March following notable leadership changes, reiterated that such behavior would not be tolerated at Columbia. She made it clear that the institution stands firmly against antisemitism and all forms of harassment and prejudice.
“Allow me to clarify that Columbia unequivocally rejects antisemitism and all forms of harassment and discrimination. Forcing students out of their study areas, particularly at such a critical time, is not acceptable,” Shipman asserted.
Additionally, she praised the efforts of professors, campus police, and NYPD officers. Their actions to manage the situation remained orderly and focused on the students who chose not to leave the reading room.
Columbia is currently in an important phase of its academic calendar, with finals scheduled to begin this upcoming Friday. Shipman expressed her deep disappointment, stating she feels “heartbroken and incensed” by the unnecessary stress and danger that the protest caused to students preparing for examinations in the library.
Reflecting on the larger context, Shipman remarked on the pressing need for solidarity within the university community. She observed a strong desire among students to engage with their educational pursuits rather than be drawn into disruptive actions.
Shipman further elaborated on the distinction between legitimate protests and disruptive behavior, stating that the line had been clearly crossed during Wednesday’s events. She maintains confidence that disciplinary actions will be pursued with the seriousness that this incident warrants.
The protest drew a response from NYC Mayor Eric Adams. He expressed support for the Jewish community in New York, including students at Columbia. Adams advised non-students protesting on campus to leave immediately, warning of arrest for anyone who remained.
Federal authorities, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, have been monitoring the situation closely. They informally confirmed that individuals arrested would be fingerprinted to ascertain their immigration status, demonstrating the seriousness of the incident.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared a similar sentiment, condemning the actions of those involved in the library occupation. He indicated that the administration is looking into the visa statuses of individuals who participated in the protest, emphasizing a swift response against any perceived threats.
Columbia University has been a focal point for various protests since the onset of the current conflict between Hamas and Israel. Observers have noted an increase in tensions and expressions of antisemitism following events that transpired on October 7, leading to clashes between different student groups.
It remains to be seen how the university will address the aftermath of this incident and whether additional measures will be implemented to ensure the integrity and safety of its educational environment.
