New York City, New York – Amid pro-Palestinian protests at Columbia University’s campus in Upper Manhattan, a rabbi associated with an Orthodox Jewish group recommended Jewish students to return home and remain there for safety. The tense atmosphere and accusations of physical intimidation have led to denouncements of antisemitism by top officials such as the White House, New York’s governor, and the mayor of New York City.
Rabbi Elie Buechler, affiliated with Columbia University’s Orthodox Union Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus, advised around 300 Orthodox Jewish students to go home ahead of Passover, a major Jewish holiday. Recent events have raised concerns about the safety of Jewish students on campus, prompting the recommendation to stay away until the situation improves drastically.
University officials, recognizing the escalating situation, have allowed students to attend classes virtually starting on the first day of Passover. This approach seeks to ensure the safety and well-being of students amid the ongoing tensions and protests.
In contrast to Rabbi Buechler’s recommendation, the campus organization Hillel expressed its belief that Jewish students should not feel compelled to leave campus. They emphasized the importance of creating a calm and safe environment for all students at Columbia University.
Chabad, another Jewish organization at the university, has hired additional security to protect students during Passover celebrations on campus. Despite the challenges faced, they intend to proceed with hosting the traditional Seder service.
The protests on campus have garnered attention from various officials and organizations, with concerns raised about the safety and well-being of Jewish students. Both supporters and critics have expressed their views on the ongoing demonstrations and the need to address the underlying issues at play.
The situation at Columbia University reflects broader tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with implications for student safety and campus dynamics. As the protests continue and developments unfold, stakeholders are working to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all members of the university community.