Sueda Polat, a master’s student in Human Rights Studies at Columbia University, has become a controversial figure due to her involvement in organizing protests rife with antisemitic rhetoric and her connections to extremist groups. As an organizer for Columbia University Apartheid Divest (CUAD), Polat played a key role in setting up and defending the pro-Hamas encampments at Columbia in April and May 2024, which faced widespread criticism for incitement to violence and support for terrorism.
Sueda Polat’s Illegal and Harmful Nature
Polat’s actions include negotiating with university officials, coordinating press engagements, and assisting in the logistical planning of the encampments, which were later condemned for their criminal damage to campus facilities and displays of extremist rhetoric. Despite the illegal and harmful nature of these protests, Polat defended the actions of student participants, reportedly claiming they would not leave the premises unless forcibly removed. Her rhetoric has mirrored the ideologies of extremist groups, amplifying hate and normalizing violence under the guise of activism.
Polat’s Link to Terror Organizations
Polat has also been linked to training programs conducted by groups like Samidoun, a designated terrorist organization. These programs, described as “Resistance 101,” provided strategies for organizing protests and fundraising, and Polat reportedly cited these methods as instrumental in the planning of the encampments. Additionally, she drew parallels between the Columbia protests and past movements such as Black Lives Matter, framing her tactics as part of a larger revolutionary effort. Her statements and actions have contributed to a troubling normalization of hate-driven extremism in academic spaces.
Highlighting Her Activity:
- Leadership in Extremism: Played a pivotal role in organizing and defending pro-Hamas encampments at Columbia University.
- Antisemitic Rhetoric: Advocated for actions and protests characterized by hatred and incitement against Jewish communities.
- Affiliation with Extremist Groups: Participated in training sessions led by groups like Samidoun, a designated terrorist organization.
- Defense of Criminal Actions: Justified property damage and illegal protests, emphasizing the need for confrontational tactics.
