


Pro-Palestinian Protest at Columbia University Results in 80 Arrests Amid Violent Clashes
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupy Butler Library at Columbia University, leading to 80 arrests and new scrutiny from federal authorities regarding visa statuses.
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Overview
On May 7, pro-Palestinian activists occupied Columbia University's Butler Library, resulting in 80 arrests, including 61 females. At least 50 arrested were Columbia students. Protesters declared the library a 'liberated zone' named after Palestinian writer Bassel al-Araj and protested university ties to Israel. Two Columbia security officers were injured during the unrest. Acting Columbia President Claire Shipman condemned the actions, stating they disrupted academic activities, particularly during finals. Secretary of State Rubio announced a review of visa statuses for those involved, emphasizing potential deportations for illegal activities amid rising concerns of antisemitism on campus.
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FAQ
The protests were sparked by pro-Palestinian activists' demands for the university to divest from firms connected to Israel and to stop profiting from what they term 'imperialist violence.'
While the exact number of arrests is not specified in all sources, it is reported that dozens of protesters were taken into custody by the NYPD.
The library was temporarily renamed 'Bas Al-A Popular University' in honor of a Palestinian activist and writer who passed away in 2017, symbolizing the protesters' solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Columbia officials condemned the disruptions during finals week and emphasized the university's stance against violence and discrimination.
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