A massive pro-Israel demonstration formed outside Columbia University on Wednesday evening in an attempt to denounce Hamas and the bloodshed they have wrought in the Middle East while also charging against the local college.
Hundreds assembled on 116th Street and Broadway where they clung to signs reading “End Jew hatred,” as others brandished the faces of those killed or taken hostage in the ongoing Middle Eastern war. While much of the fury was directed at Hamas for invading Israel on Oct. 7, some of the anger was also directed closer to home.
Students of Columbia University and NYU railed against what they called antisemitic behavior and culture inside the schools stemming from both the students and educators.
“Since Hamas’ massacre, Columbia University’s campus has morphed into a breeding ground for hate speech and subsequently antisemitism. Columbia University, like many throughout America, has done nothing to stop it,” student Vli Gelu said.
This comes after students from several campuses staged a mass walkout in support of Palestine, with several Jewish students being locked down inside the library of Cooper Union as pro-Palestine protesters hammered on the library doors.
As Jewish students spoke outside of the campus, a large pro-Palestine rally—also drawing hundreds upon hundreds—took place inside the grounds.
“Countless, countless Jewish students feel abandoned and betrayed,” student Alon Slevin said. “Columbia, we are your Jews! Where is the inclusive and equitable environment that we were promised?”
Students also pushed back against pro-Palestine supporters who state that the attack was justified and a part of resistance against an occupying force.
“I want to say this loud and clear: rape is not resistance. Kidnapping six-year-old boys is not resistance,” student Yola said. “These people call themselves social justice warriors, let’s call them for what they are—Jew haters.”
amNewYork Metro reached out to Columbia University for comment and is awaiting a response.
Read more: Three Arrested During NYC’s Latest Palestine-Israel Protests
