In an interview on MSNBC’s “Chris Jansing Reports,” Columbia University Professor Joseph Slaughter criticized the school’s administration for what he called “gross mismanagement” that led to the New York Police Department clearing out protestors from the campus encampment. Slaughter expressed dismay over the use of an assault team to shut down the student protest, stating that the situation could have been handled differently. He pointed out that the administration’s actions have escalated over the past seven months, preventing students from peacefully expressing their views on human rights issues, particularly regarding justice for Palestine.
Slaughter highlighted the administration’s failure to engage with students and listen to their concerns, noting that productive conversations should have taken place months earlier to prevent the current situation. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and understanding between the administration and students to avoid unnecessary confrontations. NBC News correspondent Antonia Hylton questioned the administration’s response, but Slaughter remained critical of their handling of the situation.
Overall, Slaughter stressed the need for the administration to listen to students, engage in meaningful discussions, and address their grievances in a more proactive and understanding manner.
