New York City, New York – Columbia University has taken action against a student protest leader following the reemergence of a video in which the student made controversial comments about Zionists. The university spokesperson confirmed that the student, identified as Khymani James, has been banned from campus. However, specific details about the ban or disciplinary actions were not disclosed by the university.
In response to the ongoing protests at Columbia, university officials condemned the “vile videos” that surfaced recently and announced the ban of the individual involved. The university expressed that any expressions or actions, such as threats or taunts towards any group of people, including Jewish individuals, are unacceptable and will face accountability.
James, a junior and member of the group Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD), is seen in the video making statements disparaging Zionists, equating them to Nazis and fascists. The video has circulated on social media channels, sparking outrage and further fueling debates surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The protests and encampments against Israel’s actions in Gaza have been established on various college campuses in the United States, leading to tensions and clashes between different groups of protesters. These incidents have also highlighted instances of antisemitism faced by Jewish students.
Talks between protesters and administrators at Columbia University regarding the dismantling of the encampment have been ongoing since its establishment in April. Protesters have been advocating for divestment from companies involved with Israel.
In a statement posted online, James expressed regret for their comments, acknowledging that they were wrong. They clarified their opposition to Zionism as an ideology that they believe contributes to the oppression of Palestinian people. The January meeting where the controversial comments were made was later revealed to have taken place with Columbia’s Center for Student Success and Intervention.
Despite the apologies and clarifications issued by James, the university and related groups have distanced themselves from the comments and emphasized that such views are not representative of their values or beliefs. The situation continues to unfold as discussions and actions regarding the protests and the individuals involved progress.