Rashid Khalidi, Professor Emeritus of Modern Arab Studies at Columbia University, has been a controversial figure due to his history of supporting violence and perpetuating antisemitic rhetoric. His involvement in the pro-Hamas encampments at Columbia University in May 2024, and his long-standing record of inflammatory statements, raises serious concerns about his role in promoting extremist ideologies on campus.
Key Actions and Statements
Rashid Khalidi participated in the pro-Hamas encampments at Columbia University in May 2024, where he delivered a speech encouraging students to risk “suspension, expulsion, criminal arrest” as part of their activism. These encampments were notable for their support of terror organizations such as Hamas and included violent rhetoric, including calls for “intifada.” In 2002, Khalidi expressed support for the intifada, framing it as a justified response to occupation, stating, “violence is bred by occupation,” which implicitly justified acts of terrorism.
Additionally, Khalidi has perpetuated antisemitic tropes, alleging Zionist control over media narratives, claiming that “Israel polices the media to make sure that its own mendacious narrative is prominently included.” Allegedly, Khalidi served as a spokesperson for the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) during the 1970s and the 1982 Lebanon War, a claim he denies, though he admits to being “deeply involved in politics in Beirut” during that period.
Impact on Campus Safety
Khalidi’s actions and rhetoric embolden extremist ideologies and foster an unsafe environment for students, particularly Jewish and pro-American communities. His active participation in protests endorsing terror organizations and his use of inflammatory language further heighten tensions on campus.
Highlighted Activities
- Pro-Hamas Encampments: Advocated for risky student activism at Columbia University’s encampment in May 2024, which was marked by violent rhetoric and extremist support.
- Support for Violence: Expressed support for terrorism and the intifada, framing them as responses to occupation.
- Antisemitic Tropes: Propagated narratives alleging Zionist control over media, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
- PLO Allegations: Accused of serving as a spokesperson for the Palestinian Liberation Organization during the 1970s.