Pro-Palestinian Protesters Occupy Columbia University Library, Prompting NYPD Sweep

Published: Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 2:05 pm

**Pro-Palestinian Protest at Columbia University Leads to Arrests, Campus Lockdown**

Tensions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict have flared again at Columbia University, resulting in the arrest of over 70 pro-Palestinian protesters. On Wednesday evening, demonstrators occupied a portion of the Butler Library, renaming it "the Basel Al-Araj Popular University." The occupation, which began around 3 p.m., disrupted students studying for final exams and led to clashes with public safety officers.

The protesters, many wearing masks and kaffiyehs, chanted slogans like "Free Palestine" and hung banners. Columbia's acting president, Claire Shipman, condemned the action, citing violations of university rules and policies. She also noted that two public safety officers were injured during a crowd surge.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) was called in at the university's request and cleared the library after 7 p.m., arresting the demonstrators. New York City Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the city's commitment to peaceful protest but stated that lawlessness would not be tolerated. The protest group, Columbia University Apartheid Divest, claimed responsibility, stating their aim was to disrupt the university's perceived funding of "imperialist violence."

The incident follows months of heightened tensions at Columbia, including previous arrests and the cancellation of federal funding. The university locked down the campus Wednesday, restricting access. The events have drawn national attention, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio reviewing the visa status of the protesters. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges universities face in balancing free speech, student safety, and academic operations amidst politically charged demonstrations.

BNN's Perspective: This situation underscores the complexities of navigating free speech on college campuses, especially when dealing with sensitive international conflicts. While the right to protest is crucial, the disruption of academic activities and the potential for violence cannot be ignored. Finding a balance that protects both free expression and the safety and well-being of all students is a difficult but necessary task for universities.

Keywords: Pro-Palestinian protest, Columbia University, Butler Library, arrests, NYPD, Israel-Gaza conflict, campus lockdown, free speech, student safety, Claire Shipman, Eric Adams, Columbia University Apartheid Divest, antisemitism, Marco Rubio, protests, demonstrations, university, New York City, campus tensions, final exams, lawlessness, peaceful protest.

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