A growing number of US college students are uniting in protest camps, demanding their institutions sever ties with Israel and any companies supporting its actions in Gaza. This call stems from the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, gaining momentum as the Israel-Hamas conflict extends past six months, garnering international calls for a cease-fire amidst suffering in Gaza.

Inspired by ongoing protests and recent arrests of over 100 students at Columbia University, hundreds of students from Massachusetts to California are converging on campuses, establishing tent camps, and vowing to remain until their demands are met.

“We want our voices heard,” stated Mahmoud Khalil, leading the Columbia protest, noting students have advocated for divestment since 2002. “Universities must address the genocide in Gaza. They should cease investing in such atrocities.”

Campus protests surged following Hamas’ deadly attack on southern Israel in October, leading to civilian casualties and hostages. Subsequently, Israel’s actions in Gaza have led to significant Palestinian casualties, including many civilians, spurring the call for action among US students.

What do the students demand?

Students are urging universities to cut ties with companies supporting Israel’s military actions in Gaza and, in some cases, to sever connections with Israel altogether. Protests are orchestrated by coalitions of student groups, with varying demands and approaches.

Student governments at several colleges have passed resolutions calling for an end to investments and academic partnerships with Israel, including Columbia, Harvard Law, Rutgers, and American University.

How are colleges and universities responding?

University officials acknowledge students’ right to protest and express a desire for dialogue. However, concerns about potential anti-Semitic sentiment within protests have been raised, with universities emphasizing their commitment to inclusion and academic freedom.

Sylvia Burwell, president of American University, rejected a resolution to end investments and partnerships with Israel, citing threats to academic freedom and inclusive community values.

Opponents of the BDS movement argue its messaging borders on anti-Semitism, prompting legislative action in over 30 states to block agencies from supporting BDS-affiliated companies. Former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos denounced BDS as a “pernicious threat,” citing concerns about bias against Jewish students.

President Joe Biden condemned anti-Semitic protests while advocating for understanding of the Palestinian situation. At Yale, President Peter Salovey noted the university’s Advisory Committee on Investor Responsibility advised against divesting from military weapons manufacturers.

President Minouche Shafik of Columbia underscored the need for serious conversations about the university’s role in the Middle East but emphasized the importance of inclusive decision-making processes.

Source: PTI

Also read: Gaza: Rising condemnation of Israel