Antisemitic protests force Harvard, Cal Poly Humboldt to implement closures, Columbia goes hybrid
Anti-Israel protests have occurred at universities around the country
Columbia University students David Lederer and Elisha Baker on what it feels like for Jewish students at the university with ongoing anti-Israel protests
Two universities on opposite coasts have implemented closures of varying degrees on their campuses as numerous colleges across the U.S. are experiencing anti-Israel protests, forcing one, Columbia University, to go hybrid.
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt shuttered its entire campus late Monday and will keep it that way through Wednesday, according to a post on the college’s website.
The closure stemmed from people occupying a building on Cal Poly Humboldt’s campus Monday evening as a form of protest against Israel.
COLUMBIA TO GO HYBRID AMID ANTI-ISRAEL PROTESTS
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In its late Monday night post, the school had cited the "safety of the campus community" as the reasoning behind closing down its campus.
"Buildings are locked down and key cards will not work. Those who are able to work remotely will continue to do so," the university said. "In-person classes and activities are transitioning to remote where possible."
A spokesperson for Cal Poly Humboldt told FOX Business on Tuesday there were 3 protester arrests on Monday night.
"The University is concerned about the safety of the students who remain in the building, and has been urgently asking the students to listen to directives from the law enforcement and peacefully leave the building," the spokesperson said.
"The University supports free speech through open dialogue that is respectful and constructive," the Cal Poly spokesperson added. "There are many avenues and options to express views that don't involve disrupting operations and vandalizing campus, thereby interfering with the rights of the community to a safe and peaceful environment."
The university had to evacuate five in-progress courses when protesters started occupying the building, according to a press release.
Meanwhile, on the East Coast, Harvard University has reportedly closed Harvard Yard, a massive grassy area nestled in the middle of the Ivy League campus. The closure started Sunday and will last through Friday, according to the Harvard Crimson, which first reported the move.
Not long after Hamas terrorists attacked Israel on Saturday, 34 student organizations signed a statement issued by the Harvard Palestine Solidarity Groups that began by blaming the "Israeli regime" for "all unfolding violence." Five groups have since … (Scott Eisen/Getty Images / Getty Images)
"Harvard Yard is closed to the public through Friday, April 26," a Harvard web page for visitors said Tuesday morning. "During this time no tour groups are permitted in the Yard."
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Harvard reportedly put up signage at Harvard Yard indicating only those with school IDs would be allowed to enter.
"Structures, including tents and tables, are not permitted are not permitted in the Yard without prior permission. Blocking pedestrian pathways or access to building entrances is prohibited. Students violating these policies are subject to disciplinary action," the sign also read, according to a photo taken and published by the Crimson.
A view of the campus of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images / Getty Images)
FOX Business reached out to Harvard for comment.
Harvard experienced a anti-Israel protest at Harvard Yard involving over 200 people late last week. On Monday, dozens of Harvard students reportedly went to the nearby Massachusetts Institute of Technology and participated in sit-in demonstrations there, according to the Crimson.
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Numerous universities in America have experienced anti-Israel protests in recent days. In some instances, students have built encampments on campus.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas began in early October after an attack by Hamas terrorists.
Fox News Digital’s Stephen Sorace contributed to this report.