Barnard College suspended Isra Hirsi, the daughter of Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar, for her involvement in a pro-Palestinian protest at Columbia University. The daughter of the controversial Somali Congresswoman was arrested at the protest.
Hirsi announced her suspension on social media on Thursday. This coincided with Columbia University President Nemat Shafik’s congressional appearance discussing antisemitism on campuses. Dr. Shafik assured lawmakers of her commitment to enforce rules relating to unauthorized protests and antisemitism during her testimony. Barnard is the sister school of Columbia.
Representative Omar, a committee member during the hearing, pushed Dr. Shafik on her treatment of Palestinian and Muslim students without mentioning her daughter’s involvement in the protest.
Hirsi, who identified herself as an organizer with Columbia University Apartheid Divest, has been advocating for the university to sever ties with companies supporting Israel.
In a social media post, Hirsi wrote, “I just received notice that I am 1 of 3 students suspended for standing in solidarity with Palestinians facing a genocide.”
Hirsi’s mother is also vocal critic of U.S. support for Israel. Joe Biden faces increasing pressure and resistance from political progressives and Muslim and Arab Americans for his government’s continued support of the Jewish state.
show less