New York Campus Protests: A Lasting Moment of Solidarity
New York, United States — On the night of Monday, April 29, the atmosphere on Columbia University’s campus was electric. Student journalists like myself, alongside my colleagues, had spent days documenting the pro-Palestine protests and encampment that had captivated the attention of the world. This movement had inspired similar campaigns in schools nationwide, and we were determined to tell its story.
As the evening unfolded, we received a tip—a key piece of information that would change the course of our coverage. With our trusty cameras and recorders in tow, we eagerly awaited what was to come. Little did we know, the events that night would leave a lasting mark on the history of this renowned institution.
The Final Offer
Beginning with a packed South Lawn and a bustling “Gaza solidarity encampment”, the morning gave no indication of the events that would transpire. Over the course of two weeks, a tight-knit community had thrived within this makeshift village, calling attention to the rights of Palestinians and advocating for divestment from companies linked to Israel’s occupation.
Each day brought a symphony of sounds—a combination of adhans, Passover prayers, and the captivating melodies of Palestinian folk and classical music. Campers shared meals, discussed issues, and painted signs in a corner dubbed the “art guild”. Their determination to make a difference was palpable.
On this fateful Monday, a final offer was presented by university administration under President Nemat Shafik—a demand for immediate evacuation or the risk of suspension. Unwilling to back down, the protesters stood strong and defied this ultimatum, setting the stage for the climactic events that would unfold later in the day.
The Raid
As Tuesday morning arrived, a sense of quiet anticipation hung in the air. The normally vibrant camp and Hamilton Hall—the catalysts of this movement—seemed eerily still. While the administration had initially refused to involve law enforcement, tensions had escalated and a seemingly inevitable raid was about to take place.
Then, shortly after 9pm, the sound of hundreds of marching police officers pierced the night. The protesters, singing and linking arms, braced themselves for the ultimate act of disobedience. But the unexpected occurred—the police bypassed the resolute camp and directed their attention towards us—onlookers and press.
As we were coerced to move, our backward steps captured every moment on camera. The commanding officers instructed us to go inside the safety of the nearby John Jay Hall. Trapped inside this confined space, exhausted and uncertain of what would happen next, time stood still. The events unraveled in a daze, with the chants of protesters muffled by closed doors and a suffocating atmosphere.
Personal belongings became makeshift cushions, and the camaraderie between us solidified. Together, we experienced the three-hour-long wait, longing for the freedom of campus and fresh air. As we were finally released, disorientation clouded our thoughts, but a sense of determination to uncover the truth prevailed.
The Remains
Wednesday dawned with disappointment. A silent yet resolute campus lay before us. The encampment was gone, leaving nothing but faded grass imprints that marked its presence. However, the spirit of the movement echoed beyond the physical encampment.
True to their indomitable spirit, the protesters orchestrated a “light show” near Hamilton Hall, projecting the powerful words “Hind’s Hall forever” onto its walls. They continued to vocalize their grievances, broadcasting their frustration outside the home of President Shafik. The blocked gates of Columbia only fuelled their resolve as they chanted, “Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest”.
The campus, though quieter, remains forever changed. The world may have gazed upon Columbia University during those dramatic days, but the impact goes far beyond a headline. It represents a lasting moment of solidarity, reminding us that the fight for justice continues both within and beyond the confines of this historic institution.
