Columbia University expels and suspends 80 students for their involvement in the pro-Palestine occupation of Butler Library.

Columbia University has taken significant disciplinary action against numerous students involved in the pro-Palestinian occupation of Butler Library, coinciding with the critical final exam period in May. In total, the university has issued expulsions and lengthy suspensions to over 70 students participating in the demonstration, a move that has drawn considerable attention. According to the protest group Columbia University Apartheid Divest, those suspended will be barred from returning to campus for periods ranging from one to three years and will be required to issue a formal apology.

The university confirmed that alongside the expulsions and suspensions, several students were placed on probation, while some had their degrees revoked. Columbia’s spokesperson emphasized the importance of maintaining respect for communal academic pursuits and the adherence to established university policies. Millie Wert highlighted that disruptions to academic activities provoke consequences, reiterating the institution’s commitment to upholding its operational integrity.

Approximately two-thirds of the disciplinary measures enacted involve suspensions or expulsions with a predominant duration of two years. The student protests were fueled by calls for the university to divest its financial ties to Israel and were also ignited by concerns regarding the federal immigration detention of a graduate student associated with the protest.

During the protest, demonstrators managed to breach security measures and occupy the library, prompting the evacuation of nearly 1,000 students who were engaged in final exam preparations. Tensions escalated as some activists clashed with public safety officers, resulting in injuries among security personnel. The New York Police Department intervened swiftly, leading to multiple arrests.

Students involved in the protests had been placed on interim suspensions while investigations were conducted. Many were arraigned in late May, with court proceedings pending for others. Furthermore, the recent sanctions have sparked speculation that they may be linked to negotiations between the university and governmental authorities concerning federal funding, particularly in light of allegations that Columbia has not sufficiently addressed concerns related to antisemitism.

Columbia’s recent decision to adopt a definition of antisemitism that includes certain criticisms of Israel has heightened concerns regarding free speech on campus. Critics have raised questions about the implications of the disciplinary actions in the context of potential government pressures.

Following the disciplinary panel’s decision, students have been provided a five-day window to appeal the sanctions. Notably, students have been instructed to complete reflective essays and letters to library staff as part of their reinstatement conditions. Some students have indicated their intention to refuse to comply with the apology requirements, illustrating the deepening divisions surrounding the issue.

As the university navigates this complex and contentious situation, the implications for academic freedom, student expression, and institutional governance remain at the forefront of discussions among stakeholders within and beyond the campus community.