The Columbia chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine has taken a firm stance against the threat of police intervention on campus. In response to a 48-hour deadline given by Columbia University to end their encampment, the group has refused to negotiate further unless the administration calls off the New York Police Department presence.
University President Minouche Shafik has warned that if discussions fail, alternative options will be considered to clear the West Lawn and restore calm to campus. However, the demonstrators have demanded a written commitment from the administration that law enforcement agencies will not be involved in handling the situation.
In a statement, Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine expressed their unwavering commitment to their cause and denounced the administration's threats as intimidation tactics. They accused the university of acting in bad faith and neglecting student safety.
The group emphasized that they will not back down in the face of what they perceive as coercion from the administration. The standoff between the students and the university administration highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the issue of the encampment on campus.
