On Thursday, over 100 students were arrested at Columbia University’s campus encampment, according to sources and photos posted on social media. One notable arrest included Isra Hirsi, the daughter of Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN). The 20-year-old Barnard College student was reportedly arrested by NYPD officers after she refused to leave the anti-Israel encampment.
Hirsi had initially taken part in a Gaza solidarity encampment at Columbia University in protest against the ongoing violence in Palestine. However, her involvement led to her being suspended from Barnard College, Columbia’s partner school. In a tweet, she stated that she was one of three students who were suspended for standing in solidarity with Palestinians facing genocide. She also admitted to being a part of the encampment, which goes against school regulations.
The encampment, organized by CU Apartheid Divest SJP, consists of protesters with tents occupying a section of the university’s campus. According to the New York Post, the New York Police Department was seen removing the tents and arresting several protesters. This sparked a response from the senior staff at Barnard College, who issued a statement confirming the suspension of students involved in the encampment.
The statement read, “This morning, April 18, we started to place identified Barnard students remaining in the encampment on interim suspension, and we will continue to do so. We have temporarily restricted access to certain outdoor spaces on our campus.” The statement also mentioned that more students would face suspension if they refused to leave the encampment.
It felt really really horrific to be standing by and watching students, so so many of whom I knew, being arrested.
Here's Isra Hirsi. pic.twitter.com/GuhjJeN15w— Shayoni Mitra (@ShayoniMitra) April 18, 2024
Hirsi, who identifies as an organizer with CU Apartheid Divest SJP, has maintained her stance against the college’s actions. In a tweet, she declared that those involved in the Gaza Solidarity Encampment “will not be intimidated” and will continue to stand firm until their demands are heard. These demands include divestment from companies that are complicit in the ongoing violence in Palestine, transparency regarding Columbia University’s investments, and full amnesty for all students facing repression.
Barnard College has not commented on Hirsi’s specific suspension, but it is clear that they do not condone the encampment and are taking action to address it. The temporary restriction of certain outdoor spaces may be an effort to disperse the encampment and prevent further protests on campus. However, this has not deterred the protesters, who continue to stand their ground.
The encampment and subsequent arrests have sparked a debate on social media, with many expressing solidarity with the protesters and others condemning their actions. Some have criticized Columbia University for its partnership with Barnard College, claiming that it is contradictory to the university’s values of diversity and inclusivity. It remains to be seen how the college will handle the situation and whether the protests will continue.
In the meantime, Isra Hirsi and other students involved in the encampment face uncertainty as they are suspended from their college and possibly facing further disciplinary action. This event brings attention to the ongoing conflict in Palestine and the impact it has on students and activists all over the world.
It also highlights the power of social media in spreading awareness and mobilizing action for important issues. As the situation continues to unfold, it is important to remain informed and open-minded about all sides of the story.