In today’s society, it is essential that we stand up for what we believe in, even if it means facing backlash and criticism. This is exactly what Columbia Law Professor Katherine Franke has been doing, as she stands in solidarity with students who are protesting for Gaza. Her bold actions have not gone unnoticed, as she has recently been the target of smears and attacks by Israel supporters. However, what is truly alarming is that there is a very real possibility of her losing her job at the prestigious university. This raises serious concerns about the state of academic freedom and the ability to speak out against injustices without fear of repercussion.
In a recent interview with The Intercept, Professor Franke revealed her concerns about the potential consequences of her actions. “There’s a very good chance that they will fire me,” she said. This statement is not surprising, given the current climate where those who speak out against Israel’s actions are often silenced, shamed, and even threatened. However, it is deeply concerning that a tenured professor, who is entitled to academic freedom and protection from retaliation, is facing the possibility of losing her job for standing up for human rights.
It all began when Professor Franke signed a letter in support of Columbia University’s Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), who were facing backlash for their peaceful protests against the Israeli occupation of Gaza. The letter, which was signed by over 100 Columbia faculty members, defended the students’ right to express their opinions and condemned the university’s attempts to silence them. As a result, Professor Franke and the other signatories were targeted by pro-Israel groups, who accused them of supporting terrorism and promoting anti-Semitism.
The attacks against Professor Franke have been relentless. She has received hate mail and threatening messages, and her personal and professional reputation has been smeared. The irony is that these attacks are attempting to silence her and intimidate her into retracting her support for the students’ cause. But Professor Franke remains steadfast in her beliefs and refuses to be intimidated. She has stated that she will continue to support the students and their right to free speech and peaceful protest.
It is important to note that Professor Franke’s actions are not an attack on Israel or the Jewish community, as some have claimed. Rather, they are a call for justice and an end to the oppression and violence faced by the people of Gaza. As a respected scholar and human rights advocate, Professor Franke has every right to speak out against these injustices. It is her duty as an educator to stand up for what is right and to encourage her students to do the same.
What is also concerning is the university’s response to these attacks. Instead of standing by their faculty member and protecting her academic freedom, they have remained silent. This is not the first time that Columbia University has faced criticism for its failure to support Palestinian rights. In 2018, they came under fire for hosting an event featuring Israeli ambassador Danny Danon, known for his extreme right-wing views. It is clear that the university needs to take a stand and protect the rights of its faculty and students, rather than giving in to pressure from outside groups.
The situation that Professor Franke is facing is not an isolated incident. The targeting of academics who speak out against Israel has become a disturbing trend. Professors and students alike have faced threats, intimidation, and even job loss for their support of Palestinian rights. This poses a serious threat to academic freedom and the ability to have open and honest discussions about important issues.
It is time for universities to take a stand and protect the rights and freedoms of their faculty and students. Professor Franke’s case serves as a wake-up call for academic institutions to uphold their values and principles, even when faced with pressure from powerful groups. It is also a reminder that we must continue to speak out against injustices and stand together in solidarity, no matter the consequences.
In conclusion, Professor Katherine Franke’s courage and determination in the face of attacks and potential job loss is commendable. Her actions serve as an inspiration to us all to stand up for what we believe in, even when it is difficult. We must continue to support her and other academics who are fighting for justice and the protection of human rights. As for Columbia University, they have a responsibility to stand by their faculty and protect their academic freedom. We can only hope that they will do the right thing and support Professor Franke in her fight for justice.
