Rep. Virginia Foxx, chair of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, has taken a stand against the anti-Israel protests at Columbia University that have left Jewish students feeling unsafe. In a letter addressed to Columbia University leaders, Foxx demanded immediate action to address the chaos caused by the Gaza Solidarity Encampment on campus.
The encampment, now in its fifth day, has created a hostile environment for Jewish students, with reports of harassment, assaults, and threats. Jewish students have been advised to leave campus due to safety concerns, and some have sought shelter off-campus.
Foxx warned that Columbia’s failure to restore order and safety promptly could result in consequences, including potential accountability from the Committee. The ongoing protests at Columbia have called for violence against Israel and its leaders, with one Jewish student even being physically attacked.
The situation escalated when the New York City Police Department arrested 108 people who refused to leave the encampment, issuing summonses for trespassing. The university also began handing out suspension notices to the students who were arrested.
Foxx emphasized the importance of restoring safety and order on campus, as well as holding accountable those responsible for the disruptions. She called on Columbia’s leaders to take decisive action against the groups involved in the protests, including possible expulsion and termination of employment.
The protests at Columbia have drawn criticism from various officials, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, and the White House, who have condemned the antisemitic nature of the demonstrations. Hochul stressed the importance of creating a safe learning environment for all students, free from harassment and violence.
As the situation continues to unfold, students are planning a walkout to demand amnesty for protesters and the university’s divestment from “Israeli apartheid.” Columbia University President Minouche Shafik’s office has stated that while students have the right to protest, they must not disrupt campus life or intimidate fellow students.
The ongoing protests at Columbia University have sparked a national conversation about free speech, safety on college campuses, and the importance of addressing antisemitism. Foxx’s letter serves as a call to action for university leaders to prioritize the safety and well-being of all students on campus.
