Barnard College Protest Escalates Amid Bomb Threat

BARNARD COLLEGE, NY — A protest at Barnard College escalated Wednesday evening when a bomb threat prompted the evacuation of the Milstein Library, where dozens of pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered in opposition to the expulsion of three students. The New York Police Department responded after receiving a 911 call, warning that those who did not leave could face arrest.

The demonstration began as protesters called for the reinstatement of students who were expelled for distributing flyers during a class at Columbia University. These actions have drawn widespread attention, with demonstrators dubbing the library the ‘Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya Liberated Zone.’

In a statement, President Laura Rosenbury expressed her commitment to maintaining safety and academic integrity, stating, ‘We will vigorously pursue discipline and other remedies against those who forcibly and illegitimately entered the building, damaged or destroyed property, disregarded our community expectations, and violated many policies and rules.’

The protest follows a nearly seven-hour sit-in last week outside the office of Barnard Dean Leslie Grinage, where approximately 60 students demanded the administration meet their requests for amnesty regarding disciplinary actions. Protesters had previously interrupted a ‘History of Modern Israel’ class, distributing flyers they described as informative.

Security measures tightened during the evening as Barnard officials warned protesters to vacate by 9:30 p.m. or face additional measures. Despite an earlier warning, protesters remained inside and continued their demonstration, which attracted attention from local law enforcement.

After hours of unrest, the sit-in concluded shortly before 11 p.m., but demonstrators continued to make their voices heard in the surrounding area. The NYPD‘s Strategic Response Group maintained a significant presence, ensuring order was restored.

The college informed students that Milstein Library is closed until further notice, with classes being relocated across campus. In a further statement, Barnard reiterated that ‘we must not allow the actions of a few interfere with our mission.’ Despite the disruption, the college emphasized that activities outside of Milstein were proceeding as normal.

The actions taken by disruptive protesters have raised concerns regarding campus safety and academic freedom, with administration officials stressing a need for respect and adherence to institutional policies.

The campus community remains divided, with supporters of the protest arguing for free speech and the right to demonstrate, while others assert that educational integrity must be preserved. Barnard College continues to navigate the complexities of maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment amid these ongoing challenges.