In recent months, there has been a troubling surge in antisemitism and anti-Israeli sentiment on college campuses across the United States, including Harvard University.
These protestors, by targeting Israel—a beacon of democracy and progress in the Middle East—aim to undermine the principles of freedom, democracy, and human rights that are foundational to Western civilization.
The right to free speech does not extend to inciting violence or spreading hate.
Despite warnings from Harvard University, activists from groups like the Harvard Out of Occupied Palestine (HOOP) have refused to disband their encampment, labeling it as a “student intifada” and vowing to persist.
Their persistence has led to increased disruption on campus, with reports of harassment of other students and staff attempting to enforce university policies.
Interim President Alan Garber has urged an end to the encampment due to its adverse effects on students’ activities and warned of severe consequences for protesters.
Despite warnings, the committee was suspended on April 22.
Recently, Garber brokered an agreement with the student radicals who have camped out on his lawn for nearly three weeks: They’d pack up their illegal encampment, and he’d do his part to make sure suspended students are swiftly reinstated.
However, this compromise sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the university’s integrity. As students return to campus in the fall, the repercussions of this agreement may tarnish Harvard’s reputation and undermine its position among esteemed American institutions.