Group of Women Arrested in Columbia University Library During Protest

Mass Arrests at Columbia University Library

The New York Police Department apprehended 61 women after a group of anti-Israel protesters disrupted activities at Columbia University’s Butler Library on Wednesday. This incident occurred as students prepared for their final exams, leading to significant unrest.

According to police reports, a total of 80 individuals were arrested, consisting of 19 men and 61 women. Sources revealed that at least 50 of those taken into custody were students of Columbia University.

Library Takeover and Demands

During the protest, demonstrators renamed the Butler Library as “Basel Al-Araj Popular University.” Eyewitnesses reported that some protesters climbed onto a desk, chanting “Free Palestine” while demanding that the university divest from Israel.

As tensions escalated, a security guard at the university’s entrance declared, “Nobody comes in, nobody comes out,” highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

University’s Response

Claire Shipman, acting president of Columbia University, issued a statement confirming that the NYPD was called in to restore order. She added that two university police officers sustained injuries during the chaos.

“Sadly, during the course of this disruption, two of our Columbia Public Safety Officers sustained injuries during a crowd surge when individuals attempted to force their way into the building and into Room 301,” Shipman stated. “These actions are outrageous.”

Impact on Academic Environment

In a separate statement, Shipman condemned the actions of the protesters. She noted that individuals had invaded one of the library’s reading rooms, further disrupting academic activities.

“Disruptions to our academic activities will not be tolerated and are violations of our rules and policies; this is especially unacceptable while our students study and prepare for final exams. Columbia strongly condemns violence on our campus, antisemitism, and all forms of hate and discrimination, some of which we witnessed today. We are resolute that calls for violence or harm have no place at our University,” she emphasized.

ICE Involvement and Monitoring

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement monitored the incident closely. The agency indicated that it would investigate the status of any participants who appeared to be non-citizens.

According to an ICE source, “Time to make a point,” suggesting a potential commitment to addressing the involvement of non-citizens in the protest.

Significance of the Event

This protest at Columbia University marks a significant moment amid ongoing debates over political issues involving Israel and Palestine. It highlights the intersection of activism and academic life, particularly during high-stakes periods like finals week. The university administration faces challenges in balancing the right to protest with maintaining a peaceful academic environment.

As the situation unfolds, the implications for university policy and student activism remain uncertain. The events serve as a reflection of broader societal tensions and differing perspectives on geopolitical issues. For now, the university community must navigate the aftermath of this provocative incident.