“More from Columbia University President Minouche Shafik.
In a detailed statement released earlier, President Shafik addressed the takeover of Hamilton Hall on Tuesday night, describing it as a “drastic escalation of many months of protest activity” that “pushed the university to the brink.”
Shafik acknowledged requesting intervention from the New York City Police Department at Hamilton Hall.
“Many students have expressed feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome due to disruptions and antisemitic remarks made by some individuals, particularly during persistent protests outside our campus gates,” she stated.
Shafik revealed that academic leaders engaged in eight days of discussions with protest representatives.
The university is currently reviewing several new proposals, including divestment and the initiation of educational and health programs in Gaza and the West Bank.”