The New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed the secure status of Columbia University’s Hamilton Hall and the complete clearance of the campus’ anti-Israel encampment following a Tuesday evening intervention.
Video footage captured police moving in on Columbia’s anti-Israel protests, with numerous protesters escorted onto buses by authorities.
According to reports, Columbia students involved in the Hamilton Hall occupation face potential expulsion, as outlined in a memo distributed by the Ivy League school.
#HAPPENINGNOW: An incredible scene and proud moment as we have assisted @CityCollegeNY in restoring order on campus, culminating in raising Old Glory once again on their campus flagpole. 🇺🇸@NYPDPC @NYPD1stDep @NYPDChiefOfDept @NYPDChiefPatrol @NYPDnews pic.twitter.com/XZWFmvXcUs
— NYPD Deputy Commissioner, Operations Kaz Daughtry (@NYPDDaughtry) May 1, 2024
“For the individuals inside the Hamilton Hall building, [they’ll be] charged with burglary in the third degree, criminal mischief, and trespassing,” stated Daughtry during a press conference. “The individuals on campus outside will be charged with trespassing and disorderly conduct.”
Meanwhile, at the City College of New York (CCNY), the American flag was re-raised after being replaced with a Palestinian flag by anti-Israel protesters at the Harlem Heights campus.
NYPD Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry expressed pride in assisting CCNY in restoring order, marking a symbolic moment as the American flag returned to its rightful place on the campus flagpole.
Last week, protesters at CCNY had raised the Palestinian flag when setting up an encampment at the public institute.
Re-raising the American flag at City College of New York symbolises campus unity, reaffirming the values of inclusivity and respect for diverse perspectives. The incident underscores the importance of upholding national identity symbols while maintaining an environment conducive to constructive dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
As tensions continue following the NYPD’s intervention, Columbia University and City College of New York will likely review their security protocols and response strategies comprehensively. These institutions face the challenge of balancing the principles of free speech and expression with the need to maintain a safe and orderly campus environment, ensuring the well-being of all students, faculty, and staff.
