Princeton University Event Featuring Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett Disrupted by Protesters

Protests Disrupt Naftali Bennett’s Visit to Princeton University

An event on Princeton University’s campus featuring former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was cut short on Monday night due to significant protests. Demonstrators interrupted the event at various points, and a fire alarm was activated, leading to an unexpected turn of events where attendees began to sing spontaneously.

The event, organized by the university’s Center of Jewish Life, took place in McCosh Hall and attracted a crowd of approximately 200 students. According to reports from the Daily Princetonian, protesters attempted to shout down the speaker, and an individual with no known affiliation to Princeton contributed to the disruptions.

Student Reactions to the Disruptions

Max Meyer, a sophomore at Princeton, expressed his discontent regarding the protest and called for university authorities to hold those responsible accountable. “As a sophomore, last night marked the first instance I witnessed a speaker event being entirely shut down by a student-led protest,” Meyer shared. He characterized the actions of the anti-Israel protesters as a coordinated effort to undermine the free speech of an invited guest.

The Nature of the Protests

The event’s moderator, Rabbi Gil Steinlauf, facilitated an off-the-record discussion that was supposed to delve into various issues related to Bennett’s experience. However, about 20 minutes in, the atmosphere shifted dramatically when protesters rose to chant, “Naftali Bennett, you can’t hide. We charge you with genocide.” This chant, captured on video, underscored the tension in the hall.

One notable protestor, Sayel Kayed, shouted at Bennett, emphasizing the tragic loss of life: “15,000 children killed, what do you say to that?” In response, Bennett countered, “Instead of whining for the past 80 years and building your own future, you have focused on killing the Jews. It’s time the Palestinians stopped whining.” This exchange was also recorded and circulated on social media, further heightening awareness of the event’s contentious nature.

The Aftermath of the Disruptions

Amidst the protest disruptions, the fire alarm added an element of chaos. Confused attendees began to sing Israel’s national anthem, Hatikvah, reflecting a sense of resilience in the face of adversity. Rabbi Eitan Webb, director of the Scharf Family Chabad House at Princeton, observed that rather than being disheartened, the community seemed invigorated by the moment.

“Not only was the community not deterred, but it was also energized,” Webb stated. “It’s vital that our narrative be framed by us, not by the negativity of others.” This comment emphasizes a desire for empowerment even in challenging situations.

University Administration’s Response

Princeton President Christopher Eisgruber issued a statement expressing his dismay at the antisemitic language reportedly used during Bennett’s visit. He condemned such behavior as “reprehensible and intolerable,” signaling the university’s commitment to investigate and pursue appropriate disciplinary measures against those involved.

Eisgruber noted, “I regret that the event was periodically disrupted by protesters inside McCosh Hall. We are aware that at least one disruptor was not a member of our community and actions will be taken against him.” Furthermore, he acknowledged the efforts of Rabbis Steinlauf, Dounn, Webb, and the CJL staff in ensuring that a part of the event could proceed without complete disruption.

Calls for Better Free Speech Protections

In light of the events, Meyer urged the university to enforce its regulations governing free speech more rigorously. He highlighted the need for rules that protect voices potentially overshadowed by louder narratives. “The university has not done enough to enforce its own time, place, and manner restrictions on speech, which exist exclusively to safeguard the free expression of all community members,” he asserted.

Appreciation and Apologies

Meyer expressed gratitude towards President Eisgruber for acknowledging the need to apologize to Prime Minister Bennett for the lack of an open forum. He insisted that such apologies were necessary to uphold the principles of free speech and academic discourse.

The incident at Princeton symbolizes a significant struggle over the boundaries of free speech on college campuses, particularly regarding sensitive geopolitical issues. Events like these raise questions about the balance between activism and open dialogue, a discussion that likely will continue in the weeks ahead.

As the university community processes the information and aftermath of Bennett’s visit, the hope remains that future engagements will foster respectful discussion, allowing diverse viewpoints to be heard without fear of disruption.