Harvard professors stand in solidarity with pro-Palestinian students

In a powerful show of solidarity, Harvard University professors organized a “study” at Widener Library on October 16 to support pro-Palestinian students who faced disciplinary action for their peaceful demonstration in September. This incident sparked significant discussion about academic freedom, protest rights, and the role of universities in social justice movements.

The backdrop of the protest

Last month, pro-Palestinian students held a silent protest at Widener Library, an important academic space at Harvard. Following this demonstration, students were banned from the library for two weeks, raising concerns about the university’s commitment to freedom of expression and the rights of its students.

Faculty response and actions

In response to the sanctions imposed on students, teachers donned black scarves and began a silent reading session, choosing texts that resonate with themes of dissent, bureaucracy and censorship. Notable works included Franz Kafka The trial and George Orwell 1984along with the University-wide Statement on Rights and Responsibilities, which was cited by Harvard officials to justify penalties against student activists.

Before the protest, a letter was sent to Martha J. Whitehead, vice president of the Harvard Library, and Ann M. Blair, president of the faculty advisory board for the library system. The letter expressed concerns about possible restrictions on faculty access to essential academic resources due to their participation in the protest. Faculty emphasized the importance of having access to these resources for their teaching, research, and writing responsibilities.

Security Measures and Concerns

To ensure control during the protest, external security officers from Securitas were present at the library. These agents collected the names and identification numbers of all teachers and students who entered the library during the silent protest. Participants also received warnings about the possible repercussions of their actions, which included the potential revocation of library privileges and disciplinary action for violating protest guidelines.

University position and faculty perspectives

Following the protest, Harvard representative Jason A. Newton stated that the university and library system would continue to collect information about the actions taking place at Widener Library before determining next steps. This response left many questioning the university’s commitment to academic freedom and the rights of members of its community.

Andrew M. Crespo, a Harvard Law School professor who participated in the protest, expressed concern about the characterization of the silent protest as disruptive. He argued that a library should be a space for quiet reflection and study, and that reading quietly at the table should not be considered disruptive behavior. Crespo’s comments highlight a broader debate about the nature of protests and the spaces in which they occur.

The importance of academic freedom

This incident at Harvard highlights the ongoing struggle for academic freedom and the rights of students and faculty to express their opinions on pressing social issues. As universities continue to navigate the complexities of free speech, dissent, and institutional politics, the actions taken by Harvard faculty serve as a reminder of the vital role academic institutions play in promoting open dialogue and supporting to social justice initiatives.

The solidarity shown by Harvard faculty in support of pro-Palestinian students reflects a growing awareness of the need for academic institutions to uphold the principles of free speech and social justice. As discussions around these issues continue, it is crucial that universities create environments where diverse perspectives can be shared and debated without fear of reprisal.

At a time when activism is increasingly important, the actions taken by both Harvard students and faculty serve as an inspiring example of how academic communities can come together to advocate for change.