The Columbia University Senate in New York City has voted in favor of a resolution calling for an investigation into the school’s leadership amid more than a week of anti-Israel protests on campus.
School leadership confirmed the details of the resolution and said it was adopted by a vote of 62-14, with three senators abstaining.
The resolution alleges that Columbia University President Minoush Shafiq violated established procedures when he authorized the New York City Police Department (NYPD) to enter campus and arrest protesters last week. .
Specifically, Shafik is accused of violating the due process rights of students and faculty when he allowed officers to enter campus.
Columbia student expelled from campus for saying ‘kill Zionists’
Columbia University President Minoush Shafiq leaves the Lowe Memorial Library on the Columbia University campus on April 24, 2024 in New York City. (Fox News Digital)
The university senate is the university’s policy-making body, made up of students, faculty and administrators, so it does not have the power to fire Shafiq.
“The administration and senate share the same goal of restoring peace to campus and allowing everyone to engage in educational activities,” the university said in a statement. “We are committed to continued dialogue and appreciate the Senate’s constructive engagement in finding a path forward.”
Shafik has faced growing calls for his resignation amid widespread anti-Semitism on campus and ongoing protests against Israel that disrupt classes.
High school student accepted into Columbia despite saying “no thanks” due to anti-Semitism: University consultant
Anti-Israel agitators gather in front of Columbia University in New York City on April 23, 2024. (Gina Moon/Getty Images)
Shafik said in a statement Monday that he was “deeply saddened” by the specific actions of the agitators who formed “encampments” on campus and enraged students and faculty with anti-Semitic slogans and chants. said.
A protest encampment appeared on the Columbia University campus lawn area on April 17th. That same day, Mr. Shafik faced harsh criticism from Republicans at a congressional hearing who said he was not doing enough to combat anti-Semitism. Two other Ivy League presidents also resigned several months ago after their testimony before the same committee was widely criticized.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
In a letter Monday, U.S. House Republicans from New York urged Shafiq to resign, saying he had failed to provide a safe learning environment as the campus “has descended into anarchy” in recent days.
Fox News’ CB Cotton and Bradford Betz contributed to this report.
