Chaos at Columbia University Graduation as Anti-Israel Protests Erupt

 

Chaos at Columbia University Graduation as Anti-Israel Protests Erupt

New York, May 21, 2025 – Columbia University’s graduation ceremony descended into chaos Wednesday as anti-Israel protesters burned diplomas, clashed with police, and disrupted speeches, leading to at least two arrests.

Protests Disrupt Commencement

• Diploma Burnings: Some graduates set their diplomas on fire in protest.
• Chants & Confrontations: Demonstrators shouted “Free Palestine!” and demanded the release of former student Mahmoud Khalil, detained by ICE for alleged ties to Hamas.
• Police Intervention: NYPD officers scuffled with protesters outside the ceremony, which hosted 12,000 graduates and 25,000 guests.

Acting President’s Controversial Speech

Columbia’s acting president, Claire Shipman, faced loud boos when she mentioned Khalil, calling his detention an attack on free speech. Some attendees criticized her remarks, with one student saying, “What about the Israeli hostages who died?”

Background & Recent Tensions

• Crackdown on Protests: Columbia recently enforced stricter rules, including banning masks and increasing security, after federal funding cuts over antisemitism concerns.
• Previous Unrest: Last year’s graduation was canceled due to anti-Israel encampments.
• Recent Library Takeover: In early May, masked protesters vandalized Butler Library with messages like “Columbia Will Burn.”

Reactions

• StopAntisemitism founder Liora Rez: “Expel the troublemakers and revoke their diplomas.”
• University Statement: Called the ceremony “successful” despite disruptions.

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