Fadi Shuman has become a divisive and controversial figure, particularly for his involvement in pro-Hamas activism and associations with groups that support terrorism and other extremist ideologies. His actions have drawn widespread criticism for promoting hostility, spreading divisive rhetoric, and creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation on university campuses. Shuman’s participation in rallies, protests, and other events has made him a prominent but polarizing presence at Columbia University and beyond.

Fadi is currently listed as a student at Columbia University’s School of General Studies, where he is pursuing a degree in Computer Science with an anticipated graduation in 2026. Additionally, Shuman is a professional mixed martial artist (Pro MMA), a role he has held as of October 2024. His dual roles as a student and athlete contrast sharply with his involvement in political and social activism that has drawn heavy scrutiny.

Fadi Shuman’s Extremism

In February 2024, Shuman participated in an anti-Israel rally at Columbia University titled “All Out For Palestine,” organized by the pro-Hamas group Within Our Lifetime (WOL). During this event, Shuman was arrested by the NYPD on multiple charges, including grand larceny and obstructing governmental administration. Video footage showed him removing a police officer’s cap in defiance. Shortly thereafter, Shuman was a speaker at a Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD) event, where he declared, “Until there’s an end to the genocide and total liberation of Palestinian land, we will refuse to be silent.”

In April 2024, Shuman was a prominent participant in a pro-Hamas encampment at Columbia. He was photographed wearing a keffiyeh and participating in chants led by WOL members. Allegations include spilling hot coffee on a photographer and intimidating Jewish students. The encampment escalated to vandalism and hostage-taking in Columbia’s Hamilton Hall, leading to a police raid.\

A Cause For Concern

• February 2, 2024: Arrested at an anti-Israel rally organized by WOL. Charges included grand larceny and obstructing governmental administration.
• February 8, 2024: Spoke at a CUAD event, advocating for the “total liberation of Palestinian land.”
• April 2024: Participated in the pro-Hamas encampment at Columbia. Incidents included alleged intimidation of Jewish students and vandalism of university property.

Quotes:

• “Until there’s an end to the genocide and total liberation of Palestinian land, we will refuse to be silent.” (CUAD Event, February 2024)
• “Columbia supports racist violence.” (Slogan from protest paraphernalia, April 2024)

Conclusion

Fadi Shuman’s activism and affiliations present a troubling portrait of an individual deeply entrenched in anti-Israel movements and extremist rhetoric. His actions, marked by public defiance, incendiary statements, and participation in disruptive events, have fostered division and raised serious concerns about campus safety and inclusivity. While his supporters view him as a vocal advocate for Palestinian rights, his detractors see him as a pro-terror activist whose presence exacerbates tensions and fear.