Columbia's protest response rebuked by all sides over free speech and public safety concerns

Columbia University‘s pro-Palestinian protests and campus occupation have drawn criticism from virtually all sides for the school’s inadequate response to both its free speech and public safety responsibilities.

Led by the 116-member coalition group Columbia University Apartheid Divest, the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” has maintained its occupation of part of campus for more than a week. Despite heavy police presence and a since-passed deadline to clear the area that has been extended 48 hours, Columbia has been unable to thread the needle on speech and safety concerns.