ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Columbia University Faces Discrimination Lawsuit by Palestinians

other · 2026-08-14

Pro-Palestinian activists occupied the library at Columbia University, leading to 80 arrests after police were called. The university, which had been a focal point of anti-Israel protests, is now being sued by Palestinian students and alumni for discrimination. The lawsuit alleges that the university failed to protect Palestinian students from harassment and a hostile environment. The protests resumed after a pause, with demonstrators entering a central building. The police intervention resulted in numerous arrests. The lawsuit marks a significant legal challenge to the university's handling of the protests.

Key facts

  • Pro-Palestinian activists occupied the library at Columbia University.
  • 80 arrests were made after police were called.
  • The protests resumed after a longer pause.
  • Demonstrators entered a central building.
  • Palestinian students and alumni are suing Columbia University for discrimination.
  • The lawsuit alleges failure to protect Palestinian students from harassment.
  • Columbia University was the epicenter of anti-Israel protests.
  • The police were called to the university to handle the occupation.

Entities

Institutions

  • Columbia University

Locations

  • New York
  • United States

Sources