The Washington Free Beacon reported on Monday that at least three professors at Columbia University canceled in-person classes in solidarity with the anti-Israel activist Mahmoud Khalil, whom federal agents arrested on March 8.
“Given that the college and Columbia University has neither issued a public statement with any clear explanations as to why or how this arrest was allowed nor offered any serious reassurances for international students who might be targeted further, many professors feel it is unsafe to continue teaching as usual,” an unnamed Columbia professor wrote to students, per the Free Beacon.
“Many students are afraid to go on or even near campus,” the email added. “To ensure the safety of all, I am cancelling classes this week.” (JNS sought comment from Columbia.)
Joseph Albernaz, assistant professor of English and comparative literature, wrote to students that he is “sickened” at the news of Khalil’s detainment, per a screen capture that the Free Beacon published.
“I cannot see how I can hold a typical class right now under these current conditions, nor how you can be expected to prepare for an exam,” the email added. “So I am cancelling in-person class tomorrow and cancelling the mid-term scheduled for Thursday. (Everyone will receive an ‘A’ on the midterm.)”
Several other professors allowed students to participate in class via video feed, rather than in person, the Free Beacon reported.
Barnard College shared a letter with JNS that its provost’s office sent to faculty.
“Please keep in mind that classes and exams should take place this week in person at their scheduled times and locations,” the email directed. “Many students rely on the classroom as a place of community, and it is important that we provide that space, as well as some experience of continuity and normalcy at this unsettled moment.”
“The provost’s office will notify the faculty if there are any changes to course modality,” it stated, noting that “we recognize that many members of our community are experiencing a great deal of stress.”
“We ask that you kindly exercise understanding and provide flexibility to students, who are temporarily in need of accommodations,” it added.