Anti-Israel protesters allegedly assault employee during building takeover at Barnard College in New York City

On the evening of Wednesday, a tense and dramatic scene unfolded at Barnard College in New York City, as a group of more than 50 anti-Israel protesters took over a building on campus. The protesters, who were demonstrating against the expulsion of two Barnard students, allegedly assaulted a college employee during the takeover. The incident has drawn attention to the growing tensions surrounding pro-Palestine activism and free speech on college campuses.

The protest was organized in response to the expulsion of two Barnard students who had been involved in a controversial incident earlier this year. In January, the two students, along with others, reportedly stormed a Columbia University classroom and distributed flyers containing hateful speech. The incident sparked widespread condemnation, and Barnard College subsequently expelled the two students involved. However, the protesters argue that the expulsion was unjust and are demanding that the school reverse its decision.

The protesters, who identified themselves as part of the Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine (CSJP) group, took to social media to document their actions. Videos posted on the platform X showed masked students banging drums, chanting through megaphones, and marching through the hallways of the occupied building. Alongside the videos, the group shared a list of demands, which they vowed to pursue relentlessly until they were met. The demands included an immediate reversal of the expulsions, amnesty for all students disciplined for pro-Palestine actions or expressions, and a public meeting with Barnard College’s Dean Leslie Grinage and President Laura Rosenbury. Additionally, the protesters called for the abolition of what they described as a “corrupt disciplinary process” and demanded full transparency in all current, past, and future disciplinary proceedings.

The situation took a serious turn when protesters allegedly assaulted a college employee, who was later hospitalized. In a statement, Robin Levine, Barnard College’s Vice President for Strategic Communications, condemned the protesters’ actions, stating that they had shown a “blatant disregard for the safety of our community.” Levine also revealed that the protesters had encouraged others to enter the campus without proper identification, further heightening security concerns. Despite the college’s efforts to de-escalate the situation, including offering to meet with the protesters and providing mediation, the group refused to engage in dialogue.

As the standoff continued, Levine issued an ultimatum, giving the protesters until 9:30 p.m. to vacate the building. If they failed to comply, the college warned that it would take further action. However, by 11 p.m., according to reports from FOX 5 New York, the protesters had begun to leave the building, bringing an end to the immediate crisis. While the protesters may have vacated the premises, their demands remain unresolved, and the incident has left the college community grappling with questions of free speech, activism, and campus safety.

The events at Barnard College highlight the increasingly contentious climate surrounding pro-Palestine activism on college campuses. While the protesters argue that they are fighting for justice and free expression, critics contend that their actions crossed a line into intimidation and violence. The incident has also raised broader questions about how colleges and universities balance the need to protect free speech with the obligation to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the protesters’ demands will be met, and how Barnard College will address the tensions that have been simmering on campus.