Irsa Hirsi, daughter of Rep. Ilhan Omar, announced her suspension from Barnard College on social media. The suspension was due to her participation in anti-Israel protests at Columbia University, where she has been studying for three years without previous disciplinary issues.
In a tweet, Hirsi revealed, “I just received notice that I am 1 of 3 students suspended for standing in solidarity with Palestinians facing a genocide.”
She also participated in the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment” on campus, which violated school rules. Hirsi expressed her determination in another tweet, “We will stand resolute until our demands are met.”
Barnard College confirmed the suspensions, stating, “This morning, April 18, we started to place identified Barnard students remaining in the encampment on interim suspension.”
Rep. Omar expressed concerns about the treatment of student activists by authorities, hoping they wouldn't be criminalized. She tweeted in support of the ongoing student activism at Columbia.
Another student announced her suspension via the Columbia's Students for Justice in Palestine Instagram account, warning of more actions to support the suspended students.
The protest escalated as students called for outside support, resulting in a larger demonstration with flares and arrests, as reported by Fox News.
Columbia University’s administration testified before Congress, claiming efforts to improve the campus climate.
The university has yet to make a formal response to the events.
