Activists Rally Behind Professor Katherine Franke Over Columbia University Exit Amid Palestine Advocacy

Columbia University’s treatment of Professor Katherine Franke has sparked outrage among academics and activists after she announced her resignation, alleging she was pressured to leave due to her pro-Palestinian advocacy. Franke, who served on the university’s law faculty for 25 years, described the campus environment as “toxic and hostile,” accusing the administration of stifling legitimate debate over Israel’s treatment of Palestinians.

Franke’s departure comes amidst broader criticism of Columbia's alleged crackdown on pro-Palestinian activism, which included student protests demanding divestment from Israel and an end to its actions in Gaza. The university faced backlash for suppressing these voices, with rights groups accusing it of undermining academic freedom and free speech.

Several prominent figures, including UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese and human rights lawyer Noura Erakat, condemned Columbia's actions as a blow to academic freedom and advocacy for Palestinian rights. The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) also expressed support for Franke, denouncing the repression of pro-Palestinian speech.

In her resignation statement, Franke highlighted her harassment, including death threats, and pointed to the university’s failure to defend academic freedom. Advocacy groups have called her departure a “disturbing example” of silencing dissent on critical global issues.