Jewish Students on Campus
Jewish students at Columbia University have faced significant challenges and intimidation from pro-Palestinian protesters, with some being barred from campus. Shai Davidai, an assistant business professor, was barred from entering the campus after attempting to hold a counter-protest against the pro-Palestinian demonstrations. He claims that his keycard was deactivated by university authorities, preventing him from accessing the main campus. Davidai described the situation as reminiscent of 1938, an era associated with rising antisemitism and persecution in Europe.24
Pro-Palestinian protesters have set up encampments on the main lawn of Columbia's campus, demanding that the university divest from Israeli companies and issue statements supporting a ceasefire in Gaza. These protests have led to tensions and conflicts, with some Jewish students reporting feeling unsafe and unable to access parts of the campus.4
Some Jewish students have reported being encircled by protesters and unable to move freely on campus. For example, Jessica Schwalb, a junior studying human rights, described an incident where she and a group of friends were surrounded by protesters shortly after entering the campus lawn.4
In response to these incidents, Jewish Congress members such as Dan Goldman, Kathy Manning, Jared Moskowitz, and Josh Gottheimer have called for action to protect Jewish students. They have held press conferences and announced that the Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life would provide escorts for Jewish students during Passover.4
These events highlight the challenges faced by Jewish students and the broader issues of free speech and safety on university campuses during the Israel-Hamas conflict.34
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