In a decisive response to escalating tensions on campus, Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD), a coalition of of anti-Israel student organizations, was banned from Instagram for promoting a protest using inflammatory and violent imagery. The now-deleted post depicted a figure holding a Molotov cocktail, a symbol associated with incitement to violence, and included messages targeting specific university trustees.
Campus Safety Measures Heightened
In response, Barnard College restricted campus access to valid ID holders and implemented heightened security protocols. Barnard President Laura Ann Rosenbury addressed the campus community, denouncing the rhetoric as a violation of the institution’s code of conduct and contrary to its principles of safety and inclusivity. “Inflammatory posts with violent imagery and specific calls for action… are antithetical to the core principles and mission of Barnard,” she stated.
The administration’s swift action follows a broader pattern of escalating rhetoric from CUAD. In October, the group issued statements endorsing violence “by any means necessary,” further amplifying concerns over the inclusivity and most of all physical safety of campus spaces.
National Attention on Campus Activism
The controversy at Columbia reflects growing national scrutiny of university campuses grappling with the intersection of activism and public safety. In recent months, CUAD’s actions have drawn criticism from civil rights organizations, university officials, and lawmakers. A Congressional report released in November spotlighted Columbia and other institutions for failing to address incidents that jeopardize student safety.
Notably, CUAD co-led protests earlier this year that culminated in the forcible occupation of university buildings and numerous arrests, a flashpoint that sparked national debate. More recently, the distribution of a provocative publication titled The Columbia Intifada heightened tensions by glorifying violence and promoting antisemitic rhetoric.
Calls for Institutional Accountability
Civil rights organizations and advocacy groups have urged Columbia to take stronger measures against hate speech and incitement on campus. Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, called the recent incidents “beyond offensive,” stressing the need for accountability. “This kind of rhetoric creates a climate of fear and poses a direct threat to Jewish students,” Greenblatt stated.