Columbia University closes temporarily amid protests.
Ongoing Protests Force Columbia University to Close Campus
OAN’s Elizabeth Volberding
3:52 PM – Thursday, October 12, 2023
Columbia University, the renowned Ivy League institution in New York City, has made the bold decision to shut down its campus to the public due to two planned student protests.
On Thursday, the prestigious university took the unprecedented step of closing its campus to the public in anticipation of two upcoming protests.
One of the protests, organized by “Students for Justice in Palestine,” and the other by “Students Supporting Israel,” have raised significant safety concerns, prompting the temporary closure.
An official announcement was made on the Columbia Preparedness website, a platform created to inform the Columbia University community about safety issues, emergencies, and important updates.
Access to the campus is now restricted to individuals with valid Columbia University IDs.
Interim provost Dennis Mitchell explained that the decision was made to prevent the entry of external supporters in a way that could compromise safety.
The statement reads: “Dear members of the Columbia community: As a follow up to the Provost’s email earlier today related to safety and free expression on campus, beginning at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow (October 12th) access to the Morningside campus will be open to valid Columbia University ID holders only. This condition is in place to help maintain safety and a sense of community through planned demonstration activities.”
UNIVERSITY ID CARD NEEDED TO ACCESS CAMPUS
Faculty, students and staff should be aware that starting at 6:00 a.m. tomorrow (October 12th), you must bring your CUID and be prepared to present it to Public Safety at one of the following gates in order to access the Morningside campus:
- North and South Pedestrian Gates at 116th St. and Broadway
- South Pedestrian Gate at 116th St. and Amsterdam
- North Pedestrian Gate at 116th St. and Amsterdam (disability access only)
- Wien Hall Pedestrian Gate (116th St. between Amsterdam and Morningside Drive)
All other campus gates will be closed.
Other important notes for tomorrow, October 12th:
- Please remember to have your Columbia University ID with you. All faculty, students and staff will need it to enter Morningside campus.
- Please allow extra time to enter campus.
- Please consider rescheduling any on-campus academic or business meetings with non-affiliates.
On behalf of the university, thank you for your cooperation and understanding.”
Earlier on Thursday, a disturbing incident occurred outside Columbia University’s main library area. A 19-year-old female Palestine advocate attacked a 24-year-old Israeli male student while he tried to stop her from tearing down flyers depicting kidnapped Israelis.
The victim, identified as “I.A.,” spoke to The Columbia Daily Spectator about the incident, expressing shock and concern for the safety of students on campus.
“We were all kind of shocked that this stuff can happen on our own campus, which should be a safe haven,” I.A. said. “We don’t know how to handle the situation, let alone that our families and friends are going through the worst nightmare, and we are mentally in the same boat with them. And now, we have to handle the situation that campus is not a safe place for us anymore.”
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How can student groups like ”Students for Justice in Palestine” and “Students Supporting Israel” work together to foster a more peaceful and productive dialogue about the Palestinian cause, while condemning acts of violence
It’s terrifying to think that someone could resort to violence on campus.”
Following the incident, both student groups released statements condemning the violence and expressing their commitment to peaceful protest.
“Students for Justice in Palestine” stated, “We condemn any form of violence and believe in engaging in peaceful and productive dialogues to raise awareness about the Palestinian cause.”
“Students Supporting Israel” also issued a statement, saying, “We are deeply disturbed by the incident that occurred today. We condemn all acts of violence and remain committed to promoting understanding and dialogue.”
Columbia University has a long history of fostering open dialogue and freedom of expression. However, recent events have raised concerns about the safety of its students and the need for increased security measures.
The decision to close the campus to the public during the protests reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for its students, faculty, and staff. By limiting access to only those with valid Columbia University IDs, the university aims to prevent potential disruptions and ensure the well-being of its community.
Protests can be powerful tools for social change, but they must be conducted peacefully and respectfully. The incidents that occurred on Thursday serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining respectful dialogue and peaceful expressions of differing viewpoints.
Columbia University hopes that by taking these measures, it can create an atmosphere where all members of its community feel safe and respected. As students continue to advocate for their beliefs, it is imperative that they do so in a manner that promotes understanding and fosters productive discussions.
The temporary closure of Columbia University’s campus serves as a reminder that the right to free expression must be balanced with the responsibility to maintain the safety and well-being of all individuals on campus. By implementing these security measures, the university aims to strike a balance between upholding the principles of free expression and ensuring a secure environment for its community.
As the protests unfold, it is crucial for all parties involved to approach the situation with empathy and respect. Constructive dialogue and peaceful demonstrations can lead to meaningful change, and it is through these channels that progress can be achieved.
Ultimately, Columbia University’s decision to close its campus highlights the importance of prioritizing safety and
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