Conflicts at Columbia University reignited on Wednesday when lots of pro-Palestinian activists entered the main libraries and staged a sit-in, disrupting student arrangements for last exams. The protesters, some wearing masks and kaffiyehs, moved into the second floor of Butler Library soon after 3 p. m., hanging flags and chanting slogans. They renamed the room” the Basel Al-Araj Popular University”. The team behind the actions, Columbia University Apartheid Divest, said in a speech that the activity aimed to challenge the school’s financial relations to what they call “imperialist murder”. The opposition is seen as a culmination of last season’s turmoil, which included the activity of Hamilton Hall and a later police response.
This latest show comes amid increased federal investigation. The Trump administration has accused Columbia of failing to protect Israeli students from abuse during previous protests. As a result, the administration has cut over$ 400 million in research funding to the university. Leaders have also been pressuring Columbia to avoid further problems, particularly those perceived as anti-Israel. Videos posted on social media showed activists carrying backpacks and pushing past a collection security shield before heading home. Columbia’s people security officers later blocked departs, preventing some protesters from leaving. By 4 p. m., authorities said around 60 people were involved. A school spokesperson confirmed that just one perusing place was affected and stated that those involved may face disciplinary actions. ” It is completely unacceptable that some individuals are choosing to disrupt educational routines”, the school said, as collection staff evacuated kids.
