What is going on: On Friday, January 19, 2024, a deeply concerning incident occurred at Columbia University during a pro-Palestine rally. Protesters, advocating peacefully for Palestinian rights, were shockingly attacked with hazardous chemicals. This act of violence raises serious concerns about the safety and rights of students on campus.

Moreover, the ongoing suspension of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP) on Columbia campuses further adds to our concerns. These organizations play a crucial role in fostering dialogue and raising awareness about the Palestinian cause. Their suspension hinders the free exchange of ideas and undermines the values of inclusivity and fairness.

Our campaign calls on the university to:

1. Call for Investigation: Conduct a thorough investigation into the attack on pro-Palestinian protesters. 
2. Ensure Student Safety: Take swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, especially pro-Palestinian students and activists.
3. Lift Suspensions: Lift the suspensions on Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Jewish Voice for Peace (JVP), both of whom have been vital in fostering dialogue and raising awareness. 
4. Create Inclusive Environment: Encourage the university to foster a campus environment that values diversity, inclusivity, and the right to peaceful protest.

“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.

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." 

-Afsheen Shamsi, Emgage board member 
 

As a community dedicated to social justice and the protection of human rights, we cannot stand by silently. Our fellow Muslims and allies at Columbia University need our support now more than ever. Emgage Action has taken a firm stance in solidarity with the pro-Palestine students and activists and is committed to advocating for their rights and safety.