Let’s start with a simple question: when do protests and the exercise of free speech cross the lines of civility? For most of America the answer is quite simple; but, if need be, we can always refer to America’s constitution for further guidance and clarity if the situation warrants further scrutiny. Rightly so, the right to redress grievances and to speak freely are enshrined in America’s founding documents and are considered cornerstones of our democratic society.
A Syrian green card holder named Mahmoud Khalil, finds himself at the center of this controversy, facing deportation after coordinating antisemitic and riotous behavior on Columbia University’s campus. Khalil is responsible for orchestrating a new brand of anti-Israel protesters, who seem to have mastered the art of intimidation and property destruction. Both Khalil and Columbia University have created a culture of fear among Jewish students, which is not only tolerated, but shamefully celebrated.
It's absolutely astounding how swiftly a campus conversation regarding Israeli policies can devolve into outright antisemitism. One might think Khalil’s arrest would signal a much-needed wakeup call for these misguided anarchist rioters, yet they continue to march forward brandishing their banners of hate. Khalil’s case will be the first of many; which raises the question, when does protesting grievances morph into a breeding ground for hate crimes?
The irony is thick enough to cut with a knife. These so-called activists preach tolerance and understanding as Jewish kids are compelled to hide their identities and tiptoe around the very space designed for learning and self-expression. The hypocrisy is palpable; these protests are framed as movements for social justice, while simultaneously undermining the rights and safety of a significant portion of the student body.
What’s even more astonishing is the lack of accountability from the university. Why haven’t they stepped up and condemned these acts of violence and harassment against Jewish students? Current laws prohibit violent conduct, as well as harassment and intimidation. On December 11, 2019, President Donald Trump issued Executive Order (EO) 13899 to assist in combating antisemitism in schools and university campuses. The EO provided guidance and interpretive support for the enforcement of the nation’s civil rights laws. The goal was to protect American Jews to the same extent to which all other American citizens are protected.
The Biden administration was quick to ignore its very existence.
Additionally, let’s not forget the disturbing effect this has on academia itself. Professors who want to teach Middle Eastern politics find themselves treading cautiously, lest they provoke outrage from the emboldened Islamic faction on campus. Ideas that could potentially foster understanding are effectively silenced, and what remains is an echo chamber of radical views, supplanting the marketplace of ideas and debate.
It's worth noting, Khalil’s apprehension and subsequent detention serves as a broader issue. It shows the ease with which some foreigners can slip through the gaps between liberty and radicalism. As he faces eventual deportation, we must ask ourselves, why should we allow guests in our country to conduct themselves in this manner; especially while receiving the gift of an Ivy League education?
I think we can all agree, the right to protest is a necessary tool for the exercise of free speech and the ability to redress grievances. However, when they cross the line into intimidation, violence, and property damage, it’s no longer a protest, it’s a coordinated riot. There is no ambiguity in America’s Constitution; the people have the right to “peaceably assemble;” and the moment they deviated from this constitutional decree; they officially became criminals.
America’s constitution gives broad authority to America’s Secretary of State Marco Rubio to revoke green cards, student visas and worker permits if foreign aliens promote and support terrorist organizations. Rubio was quoted as saying: “We will be revoking the visas and/or green cards of Hamas supporters in America so they can be deported.” I think it’s fair to assume, Khalil will be catching the next plane out.
I’m quite sure the Syrian people will be happy to have its prodigal son back home where he belongs. His Ivy league degree should come in handy in the war-torn country. But don’t fret all you radical Islamic sympathizers, the ACLU is fighting his deportation; while Jewish students continue to duck and cover at America’s so-called higher learning institutions.
For the second year in a row, this year’s badge of shame goes to Columbia University’s faculty and its impotent administrators for encouraging and condoning this repulsive antisemitic conduct.
Editorial comments expressed in this column are the sole opinion of the writer.
