Late last week, over 100 protestors who had set up camp on the Ivy League's Morningside campus's South Lawn were arrested by New York Police Department (NYPD) officers, under Shafik's directive. As the pro-Palestinian protest enters its sixth day, Shafik announced early Monday that classes would transition online to "deescalate the rancor and give us all a chance to consider next steps."
In a statement, Shafik expressed her deep sadness over the campus events, stating, “Our bonds as a community have been severely tested in ways that will take a great deal of time and effort to reaffirm." She noted that students from various communities have expressed safety concerns, and the university has announced additional measures to address these security issues. Shafik also pointed out that the campus tensions have been exploited by individuals unaffiliated with Columbia, who have used the situation to further their own agendas.
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In response to the crisis, Shafik revealed that a coalition of deans, administration officials, and faculty members would work towards a resolution. She also condemned the antisemitic behavior on campus, stating, “Antisemitic language, like any other language that is used to hurt and frighten people, is unacceptable and appropriate action will be taken." She encouraged those affected to report incidents through university channels and reminded everyone of the support available for those adversely affected by current events.
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Shafik's handling of campus antisemitism was scrutinized by Republican lawmakers during her testimony before the House Committee on Education on Wednesday. This followed the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel.
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House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik called for Shafik's resignation on Sunday, arguing that Columbia University should have a president "who will protect Jewish students and enforce school policies." Stefanik wrote, “Over the past few months and especially the last 24 hours, Columbia’s leadership has clearly lost control of its campus putting Jewish students’ safety at risk. It is crystal clear that Columbia University – previously a beacon of academic excellence founded by Alexander Hamilton – needs new leadership. President Shafik must immediately resign.”
This call for resignation comes in the wake of University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill and Harvard University President Claudine Gay stepping down following backlash to their congressional testimony over college antisemitism.
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