Despite repeated incidents of antisemitism, Columbia University's response has been inadequate, prompting criticism from Jewish alumni and pro-Israel advocates.
Columbia University has come under fire for its handling of antisemitism on campus after suspending Assistant Professor Shai Davidai, a vocal critic of the university's response to anti-Israel demonstrations.
Davidai was barred from campus on Tuesday following an incident on October 7, 2024, which the university alleges involved harassment and intimidation of university employees. However, Davidai claims that the suspension is retaliation for exposing university administrators on video during the anniversary protests on campus.
Columbia's Failure to Address Antisemitism Sparks Outrage
This suspension has sparked outrage among Jewish alumni and pro-Israel advocates, who argue that Columbia has failed to adequately address antisemitism on campus. In a statement to Fox News Digital, Columbia alumnus and Jewish woman criticized the university's response, saying, "No change at Columbia. Jews are not safe on campus."
Davidai, a business assistant professor and pro-Israel advocate, has frequently spoken out against the university's leadership over their response to anti-Israel demonstrations. He claims that he has been the target of threats and intimidation due to his activism.
Columbia's Failure to Address Antisemitism Sparks Outrage
"The University has consistently and continually respected Assistant Professor Davidai's right to free speech and to express his views. His freedom of speech has not been limited and is not being limited now," said University spokesperson Samantha Slater.
However, Davidai argues that his suspension is part of a larger pattern of silencing Jewish voices on campus. "There's basically no standard for when it comes to Jewish life on campus," said Davidai.
Columbia's Failure to Address Antisemitism Sparks Outrage
Davidai's suspension comes amidst a rise in anti-Israel sentiment on American college campuses. In recent years, several incidents of antisemitism have been reported at Columbia, including the defacement of Jewish symbols and the disruptions of pro-Israel events.
Jewish groups and pro-Israel advocates have expressed their disappointment with Columbia's response to these incidents, arguing that the university has not taken sufficient action to protect Jewish students and faculty.
Columbia's Failure to Address Antisemitism Sparks Outrage
"The university's actions send a dangerous message that antisemitism is tolerated on campus," said Davidai. "This is unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue."
In response to the criticism, Columbia University has stated that it is committed to addressing antisemitism on campus. However, Jewish alumni and pro-Israel advocates remain skeptical, arguing that more must be done to ensure that Jewish students and faculty feel safe and welcome on campus.
"Columbia must do better," said an alumnus. "They must take a stand against antisemitism and protect the rights of Jewish students and faculty to express their views."
