By Katherine Franke, a tenured law professor at Columbia University, has announced her early retirement, citing pressure due to her pro-P@lestinian advocacy. Franke stated that she was “targeted for [her] support of pro-P@lestinian protesters” by university officials and external actors. She described the university’s actions as “a termination dressed up in more palatable terms.” The situation traces back to a January 2024 incident where pro-P@lestinian students at Columbia were reportedly sprayed with a foul-smelling substance during a campus protest.
Franke publicly condemned the attacks against the student protesters, which led to an investigation by the university. She contends that the university’s finding—that her comments violated its non-discrimination policy—was unjustified. Franke’s departure has sparked discussions about academic freedom and the treatment of faculty members who express controversial political views.
Supporters argue that her case exemplifies the challenges faced by academics advocating for P@lestinian rights within U.S. institutions. This incident is part of a broader pattern of tensions on U.S. campuses regarding Middle East politics. In 2024, Columbia University witnessed significant pro-P@lestinian protests, leading to administrative actions and debates over free speech and academic freedom.
