Columbia University’s interim president, Katrina Armstrong, opened the new academic year by issuing an apology to anti-Israel protesters who were affected during a police intervention on campus last year. Armstrong addressed the situation in an interview with The Columbia Spectator, expressing regret for the “hurt” caused when the NYPD was called in to disperse demonstrators.
“I understand that I am in this position, and if you could let everyone know who was hurt by that, I’m incredibly sorry,” Armstrong said. “I know it wasn’t me, but I’m really sorry.”
Armstrong took over as interim president last month, following the resignation of Minouche Shafik, who faced criticism over her handling of campus protests that had grown increasingly volatile. Last year, campuses across the country, including Columbia, saw a surge in protests over the war in Israel, with rising instances of antisemitism and safety concerns voiced by Jewish students.
At Columbia, demonstrators had taken over Hamilton Hall in late April, demanding the university divest from Israel. Protesters occupied the building for nearly 24 hours before the NYPD was brought in to clear the space. Officers used riot gear and equipment such as electric saws and stun grenades to remove the agitators, leading to the arrest of approximately 200 protesters throughout the academic year.
Armstrong emphasized the importance of balancing free expression with the university’s responsibility to ensure the continuity of academic activities. “We have to be committed to our principles… to create an environment where freedom of expression is supported and debate is encouraged,” she said.
However, her apology has sparked backlash within the Jewish community at Columbia. Ari Shrage, cofounder of the Columbia Jewish Alumni Association, criticized the apology as “tone deaf,” arguing that it sent the wrong message about enforcing rules on campus. Similarly, student Maya Cukierman called for an apology to Jewish students instead, citing ongoing harassment and discrimination.
A Columbia spokesperson later stated that Armstrong’s remarks were part of a broader effort to listen to and acknowledge the experiences of all students affected by last year’s events, reaffirming the university’s commitment to making the campus a safe and respectful place for all.
