Barnard College Faces Campus, Unrest Amid Heated Protests and Security Threats
New York, March 6, 2025 – Barnard College, the prestigious women’s liberal arts institution affiliated with Columbia University,
has been thrown into the national spotlight following a series of intense protests, security concerns, and administrative actions.
Recent events have stirred heated debates on campus safety, free speech, and the growing tensions over the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Protests Escalate at Barnard: Hundreds Occupy Campus Buildings
On March 5, 2025, over 200 anti-Israel protesters—comprising Barnard and Columbia University students—occupied the Milstein Center for the second consecutive week, disrupting academic activities.
The demonstrators demanded the reinstatement of two students who were expelled
after disrupting a Columbia University course on the history of modern Israel.
Protesters accused the college administration of suppressing their voices, while school officials cited violations of campus policies.
As tensions grew, the situation took a serious turn when a bomb threat was reported,
leading to an immediate evacuation of the building.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) swiftly responded,
deploying over 50 officers to secure the area. The bomb threat was later determined to be a hoax,
but not before creating widespread panic and intensifying the already volatile atmosphere on campus.
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Security Concerns and Arrests as Violence Erupts
The protests, initially peaceful, quickly escalated when demonstrators clashed with security personnel and college staff. Reports confirmed that a Barnard College employee was physically assaulted and had to be hospitalized due to injuries.
Additionally, protesters reportedly displayed disturbing imagery,
including a “Wanted” poster of Dean Leslie Grinage and an effigy of Barnard President Laura Rosenbury.
Some demonstrators even chanted slogans perceived as violent, raising concerns among faculty and students about campus safety.
The NYPD intervened, arresting at least nine individuals who refused to comply with dispersal orders.
Many were seen resisting arrest as they continued their demonstration on school property,
despite multiple warnings from authorities.
Shocking Flyers and Extremist Messaging Circulated on Campus
Adding to the controversy, reports surfaced on March 6 that protesters were distributing flyers from the “Hamas Media Office”, which glorified the October 7 attacks against Israel.
These flyers, containing inflammatory messaging, shocked many within the Barnard and Columbia communities.
In addition, stickers reading “Death to Amerika” and “Burn, Barnard Burn” were found plastered on campus buildings, sparking further outrage.
A puppet resembling President Rosenbury was also spotted hanging outside the occupied building,
fueling accusations that the protest had taken an extreme and dangerous turn.
Barnard Administration Under Fire for Handling of Protests
Barnard College leadership has faced mounting criticism from both students and external organizations for their handling of the crisis.
The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) released a report criticizing the college for failing to take adequate action against antisemitic incidents, citing a lack of accountability for violent or extremist activities.
In response to the growing backlash, President Laura Rosenbury issued a statement condemning
the violence and reaffirming the institution’s commitment to ensuring safety and maintaining academic integrity.
She emphasized that the college will not tolerate actions that disrupt campus life or put students and faculty at risk.
However, student activists have accused the administration of siding with law enforcement rather than addressing their concerns about Palestinian rights and academic freedom.
Many continue to demand a direct meeting with college leadership to discuss their grievances.
Federal Government Weighs In: Possible Funding Cuts for Barnard?
Amid the turmoil, the situation has caught the attention of federal authorities. Former President Donald Trump recently announced that his administration would push to cut federal funding to universities that allow “illegal protests.”
Although Trump did not clarify what qualifies as an illegal protest, his statement has sparked national debate over the limits of free speech on college campuses.
Some conservative commentators have urged Barnard College to take a tougher stance on campus unrest, while free speech advocates warn that restricting protests could set a dangerous precedent.
What’s Next for Barnard College?
As Barnard College grapples with these ongoing challenges, students, faculty, and administrators remain divided on the path forward.
While some call for stricter policies to prevent similar disruptions in the future, others argue that student activism is an essential part of campus life and academic discourse.
With heightened security measures now in place and more protests likely on the horizon, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of free expression at Barnard College.
1. What sparked the recent protests at Barnard College?
The protests at Barnard College began after two students were expelled for disrupting a Columbia University class on the history of modern Israel.
Demonstrators have demanded their reinstatement and broader institutional support for Palestinian rights.
2. When did the protests escalate?
On March 5, 2025, over 200 protesters occupied the Milstein Center at Barnard College.
The situation intensified when a bomb threat was reported, leading to an evacuation and NYPD intervention.
3. Was the bomb threat real?
No, the bomb threat was determined to be a hoax. However, it caused significant panic and led to an increased police presence on campus.
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