Columbia Interim President Apologizes Amid Protests

Columbia University's new interim president, Katrina Armstrong, has issued a public apology for the harm caused by police actions during pro-Palestinian protests last spring, particularly the clearance of encampments and the occupation of Hamilton Hall. Armstrong, who succeeded Minouche Shafik amid criticism over her handling of these events, expressed her sorrow towards those affected, stating, 'I’m just incredibly sorry,' and emphasized her commitment to addressing the resulting pain. However, her apology has been met with backlash from the university's Jewish community, who argue that she should instead acknowledge the threats and harassment faced by Jewish students during the protests. Critics have described the environment on campus as increasingly polarized, with instances of anti-Semitic slogans and intimidation reported. The political tension surrounding these protests continues to impact the university's reputation, with ongoing discussions about the administration's response to activism. Armstrong's comments come at a time of heightened scrutiny of campus climates regarding free speech and safety for diverse student populations.