NEW YORK CITY: Emgage Action, a steadfast advocate for Muslim rights and social justice, condemns in the strongest terms the recent attack on protesters at Columbia University during a pro-Palestinian rally this past Friday. The events that unfolded are deeply concerning and demand immediate attention.
The organization stands in solidarity with the pro-Palestine students and activists who, while peacefully exercising their right to assemble and express their views, were subjected to an appalling act of violence. The alleged spraying of hazardous chemicals upon them is an affront to the principles of free speech and peaceful protest, values that Columbia University should uphold and protect.
Furthermore, Emgage Action is deeply troubled by the ongoing suspension of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) on Columbia campuses. These organizations have been vital in fostering dialogue and raising awareness about the Palestinian cause. The organization calls upon Columbia University to reevaluate and lift these suspensions to ensure a fair and inclusive environment for all students to engage in constructive discussions on critical issues.
“As someone who has devoted my life to advancing social justice causes, I am horrified that peaceful student protestors would be attacked with chemical agents while advocating for the human rights of Palestinians. As a Columbia alumna, I am so very disappointed in the administration’s response or lack thereof,” said Emgage board member, Afsheen Shamsi.
“Universities have an obligation of care to all their students regardless of whether they agree with their political views or not. In this moment when Palestinian and Muslim students are experiencing deep pain and trauma due to the devastation and tremendous loss of lives in Gaza compounded by living with the fear and pain of Islamophobia amidst an exponential increase in hate crimes against our community in the aftermath of October 7th here at home, Columbia University's administration needs to center its obligation of care to all students, including their Palestinian and Muslim students, while providing a safe and supportive space for students to grieve, mourn, protest war and the tremendous loss of civilian lives in Gaza, most of whom are innocent children," Shamsi added.
Emgage Action reaffirms its commitment to supporting the pro-Palestinian students and activists at Columbia University, and calls for a thorough investigation into the recent attack. The organization urges the university administration to take swift and appropriate action to ensure the safety and well-being of its students, as well as to protect the fundamental right to peaceful protest.
Emgage Action has created this call to action that allows the public to urge Columbia University's administration to condemn the attacks on its students.
Emgage Action remains resolute in its mission to promote a society that values diversity, inclusivity, and the right to express one's beliefs without fear of violence or suppression.
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About Emgage Action
Emgage Action supports and advocates for just policies that strengthen our pluralistic democracy and protect human rights at home and abroad.
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