Barnard College Expels Two Students for Disrupting Class on Modern Israel
In late January, Barnard College, an affiliate of Columbia University, expelled two students for their alleged involvement in disrupting the first session of a "History of Modern Israel" course. The expulsions were made public by the Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD) group, which advocates for Columbia University to sever ties with Israel. The group has been vocal about its opposition to Israeli policies and has criticized Barnard’s administration for what it claims is a hostile stance toward pro-Palestinian voices. In a post on the social media platform X, CUAD accused the Barnard administration of using harsh disciplinary measures to silence dissent and "erase their complicity" in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Barnard Administration Responds to the Incident
Barnard College President Laura Rosenbury addressed the situation in a statement to Fox News Digital, though she did not confirm the expulsions directly. She emphasized that federal law prohibits the college from discussing individual students’ academic or disciplinary records. However, Rosenbury reiterated Barnard’s commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive learning environment. She stated, "When rules are broken, when there is no remorse, no reflection, and no willingness to change, we must act." Rosenbury also highlighted the college’s values of respect, inclusion, and academic integrity, noting that expulsion is an "extraordinary measure" but one that aligns with the institution’s commitment to upholding these principles.
Details of the Disruption Emerge
According to reports, the two expelled students, along with a Columbia student and a fourth individual, disrupted the "History of Modern Israel" class on January 21. They allegedly banged on drums, chanted "Free Palestine," and attempted to plaster the classroom walls with a sign featuring an illustration of Hamas terrorists pointing guns, accompanied by the phrase "THE ENEMY WILL NOT SEE TOMORROW." The incident was documented in a video posted by CUAD on Instagram, with the caption describing the course as "training future foot soldiers and managers of genocide." The group encouraged others to follow their lead, stating, "We disrupted a Zionist class, and you should too."
Broader Implications and Reactions
The expulsions have sparked a broader debate about free speech, academic freedom, and the role of activism on campus. Supporters of the expelled students argue that their actions were a form of political protest protected by free speech, while others, including Barnard administrators and Jewish advocacy groups, view the disruption as harassment and an attempt to stifle intellectual discourse. Brian Cohen, director of The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, praised President Rosenbury’s decision, stating that the individuals involved had "disrupted a class, handed out antisemitic flyers, and harassed students who only wanted to learn." He added, "These individuals don’t belong on campus – and now they won’t be."
Reactions from the Columbia University Community
The incident has also drawn mixed reactions from the wider Columbia University community. Some students and faculty members have expressed concern over the administration’s handling of the situation, arguing that the disciplinary measures may set a precedent for stifling political expression. Others have defended the administration’s actions, asserting that the disruption crossed a line by creating a hostile environment for students attempting to learn. The Columbia student involved in the incident was reportedly suspended by Columbia University in the days following the disruption.
A Broader Debate About Academic Freedom and Activism
The expulsions at Barnard College have ignited a broader conversation about the balance between academic freedom and activism on campus. The incident raises questions about where to draw the line between peaceful protest and disruptive behavior, as well as how institutions of higher education should respond to such incidents. While some argue that universities have a responsibility to protect students’ rights to express their views, others emphasize the importance of maintaining an environment conducive to learning and intellectual exploration. The situation at Barnard underscores the challenges colleges face in navigating these competing interests during a time of heightened political tensions and activism.
