Masked Protestors Disrupt Columbia Classes
Columbia University was thrown into chaos on Tuesday as masked individuals stormed classrooms, distributing flyers with antisemitic messages, according to witnesses. The disruptive protesters handed out leaflets depicting a boot crushing a Star of David and calling for the burning of Zionism.
The incident, captured on video, showed the disruptors entering a History of Modern Israel class, causing a commotion by reading from the hateful leaflets. This disruption is part of a larger trend of anti-Israel protests at Columbia, with the university being labeled a “national model” for such demonstrations by a watchdog group.
Witnesses Speak Out
Students and faculty who were present during the disruption shared their harrowing experiences. Lishi Baker, a Middle East history major, described the posters as reminiscent of 1930s Germany, creating a hostile environment for Jewish students. Professor Avi Shilon confronted the disruptors, offering to discuss their concerns outside the classroom after the lesson.
While the disruptors were mostly labeled as “outside agitators,” the impact on the Columbia community has been profound. Baker expressed disbelief at the aggressive tactics employed by the protesters, noting that such behavior goes against the principles of higher education.
Response and Future Plans
In the aftermath of the disruption, visiting professor Avi Shilon expressed concern for the safety of his class, emphasizing the importance of respecting the learning environment. Despite the ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict, protesters on campus continued to spread antisemitic propaganda, vowing to persist in their demonstrations.
The university has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with questions raised about the suspension of student groups involved in the protests. Columbia has reiterated its condemnation of antisemitism and violence, pledging to reinforce its academic mission and community safety under the leadership of Interim President Katrina Armstrong.
As tensions continue to escalate on campus, the Columbia community grapples with the aftermath of the disruptive protests and looks towards a future of peaceful dialogue and understanding.
**Keywords: Columbia University, anti-Israel protest, disruptive protesters, antisemitic messages, campus disruption**
