Amid the ongoing anti-Israel protests, Rabbi Elie Buechler, an Orthodox rabbi at Columbia University, has strongly advised Jewish students to leave campus due to rising safety risks. The protests have escalated tensions at the Ivy League institution, with instances of protesters advocating for violence and expressing support for terrorism.
In private messages to Jewish students, Rabbi Buechler highlighted the challenges faced by Columbia University’s Public Safety and the NYPD in guaranteeing their safety amid the prevailing climate of extreme anti-Semitism and chaos on campus.
RABBI WARNS: LEAVE COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY NOW
Rabbi Elie Buechler, Columbia University Learning Initiative, advised Jewish students to "return home as soon as possible and remain home" amid escalating tensions on campus. The warning comes after violent pro-Palestine protests with… pic.twitter.com/6hgZl5eODb
— Sami Ullah (@SammiUllahh) April 21, 2024
“The protests that have occurred since Wednesday have underscored the fact that Columbia University’s Public Safety and the NYPD are unable to ensure the safety of Jewish students in light of the prevailing anti-Semitism and chaos, he stated.
Columbia University Rabbi Urges Jewish Students to Return Home Amid Safety Concerns:
Rabbi Buechler expressed deep concern and strongly advised students to return home promptly and remain there until the situation on and around campus significantly improves.
In a similar vein, the Columbia Chabad stood in solidarity with students, characterizing the prevailing atmosphere as oppressive and expressing concern about its effects on students’ mental health and academic endeavors.
“It is not our job as Jews to ensure our own safety on campus. No one should have to endure this level of hatred, let alone at school.” Rabi Yuda and Naomi Drizin, Chabad at Columbia University told the students.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel, in a show of solidarity, reaffirmed their dedication to assisting Jewish students during challenging periods. They urged both the university administration and the City of New York to promptly address the situation and prioritize student well-being.
Head of Columbia/Barnard Kraft Center for Jewish Life emails students “It is unacceptable that I need to send this email in 2024” but: NYPD will be at the Kraft Center through Passover & Public Safety will provide escorts to/from Kraft Center for anyone attending the Seder.
Head of Columbia/Barnard Kraft Center for Jewish Life emails students “It is unacceptable that I need to send this email in 2024” but: NYPD will be at the Kraft Center through Passover & Public Safety will provide escorts to/from Kraft Center for anyone attending the Seder pic.twitter.com/T0PN1nKLbC
— Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) April 22, 2024
The Columbia Jewish Alumni Association penned a letter to President Nemat (Minouche) Shafik, warning that violence against Jewish students on campus is imminent and urging her to take all possible steps to protect student safety.
Amidst the ongoing controversy, Israeli-born Columbia professor Shai Davidai expressed apprehensions regarding the safety of Jewish and Israeli students, faculty, and staff. Specifically, he highlighted concerns related to the upcoming anti-Israel encampment. Davidai called for police escorts to safeguard himself and others, emphasizing the university’s responsibility to ensure their physical well-being during these tense times.
ALSO READ | NYPD Disperses Pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University
