Being a professor at Columbia University has brought about some unexpected challenges lately, especially in my music humanities class. Just the other day, while my students were diving into a presentation on the composer John Cage and his famous piece “4’33”,” I found myself in a difficult position.
You see, the incessant chanting of protesters outside our classroom made it impossible for us to experience the intended silence of Cage’s work. It’s disheartening to see these protests, which have become a daily occurrence, disrupting the very essence of our academic environment.
What really strikes me is the stark difference in how these protests are treated compared to hypothetical scenarios involving different causes. If the chants were directed against the Black community or promoted ideologies considered unacceptable by society, they would likely be swiftly condemned and shut down.
However, when it comes to issues like the Gaza War and Zionism, there seems to be a strange tolerance for prolonged, loud, and sometimes aggressive demonstrations.
While some justify this tolerance under the banner of social justice and anti-colonialism, it overlooks the discomfort and sense of alienation felt by those directly impacted.
As someone who recognizes the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict and values robust debate, I can’t help but feel that the current approach to protest on our campus is stifling genuine dialogue and understanding.
Adding to the challenge is the amplified intensity of these protests in the digital age, with social media platforms serving as a stage for performative activism. While this may attract attention and support, it does little to foster meaningful engagement or bridge divides.
Ultimately, what started as a legitimate expression of dissent has evolved into a relentless barrage that undermines the very fabric of academic discourse and community. It’s high time we reevaluate the balance between activism and respect for diverse perspectives on our campus.