Jacob Brown
Columbia University’s President, Minouche Shafik, issues a deadline for protesters to reach an agreement by midnight Tuesday to vacate a pro-Palestinian encampment, citing the importance of free speech alongside safety concerns.
Letter to the School Community:
Shafik emphasizes the significance of free speech and peaceful demonstrations but expresses concerns over the encampment’s impact on campus safety and disruption of campus life in a letter to the school community.
The encampment on the West Lawn for nearly four days has prompted disruptions and tensions on campus, prompting the university to adopt hybrid classes for the remainder of the term.
Response to Previous Protests:
Following protests surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict, Columbia University transitioned to hybrid classes and remote learning options, with recent arrests on campus adding to the escalating tensions.
Visit by U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson:
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson announces plans to visit Columbia University amidst concerns of safety for Jewish students and escalating anti-Israel protests, highlighting broader nationwide protests at universities like New York University and Yale.
