The College Democrats of America released a statement praising pro-Palestinian protesters for their courage after they took over a building at Columbia University. The organization expressed solidarity with the students protesting at various universities, including Harvard, Yale, George Washington, and MIT. The statement emphasized the importance of peaceful protest as a fundamental American right.
The incident at Columbia University involved protesters seizing control of Hamilton Hall, smashing glass doors, setting up barricades, and displaying pro-Palestinian banners. In response, Columbia University imposed restrictions on campus access and threatened to expel the occupying students.
The College Democrats commended the students for their bravery in standing up for the rights of the Palestinian people, while also condemning any calls for violence against Jewish and Muslim students. The statement criticized President Biden for his support of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, calling for an immediate ceasefire in the conflict with Hamas.
The statement did not address the specific events at Columbia University but highlighted the increase in antisemitic incidents following a Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023.
