Columbia President Defends NYPD Call, Moves Finals Online

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik’s recent statement regarding the campus protests and the involvement of the New York Police Department (NYPD) reveals the complexity of the situation. Shafik expressed deep sadness over the protests, which she described as a “drastic escalation.” The decision to call in the NYPD, leading to mass arrests, was prompted by what Shafik termed an “intolerable level” of safety risks for the community, particularly after protesters occupied Hamilton Hall.

Shafik defended her actions, stating that the university had been patient in dealing with unauthorized demonstrations for months. She emphasized that the protesters’ actions were viewed as “acts of destruction, not political speech,” and that the university had engaged in negotiations with students advocating for divestment from Israel, despite not reaching a resolution.

The decision to move final exams from the main campus to a remote format was a response to the ongoing protests. This move, affecting exams scheduled to begin this Friday, was made in light of safety concerns and the restricted access to the main campus, which is currently limited to students living in dormitories.

In response to the escalating situation, Columbia University is considering various options regarding final exams for undergraduate students, including making them optional, adjusting grading policies, or canceling them altogether.

Shafik expressed hope for calm in the weeks ahead and stressed the importance of continuing dialogue on crucial issues, including free speech, discrimination, and the university’s role in contributing to better outcomes in the Middle East.

The protests at Columbia University began about two weeks ago, with students calling for the university to divest from Israel. The establishment of a tent encampment on April 17 led to tensions, culminating in the NYPD’s intervention and the arrest of over 100 individuals for trespassing.

Prior to the involvement of law enforcement, the university had warned students to leave the encampment or face disciplinary action. Despite efforts to avoid police intervention, the situation escalated after protesters refused to vacate Hamilton Hall.

Columbia University’s decision to involve the NYPD was based on the actions of the protesters rather than their cause. The university stated that bringing back the NYPD at that time was deemed counterproductive and could further inflame the situation on campus.