Protecting Jewish Students: Are Critically Engaged Protesters Considered?

Peter Beinart, known for his opinion pieces in The Times, delves into this important discussion. He's also the author of several influential books.

On April 29, 2024, Tess Segal, a sophomore at the University of Florida, found herself voicing her concerns alongside fellow activists. They gathered at a major campus location, demanding that the university cut ties with arms manufacturers and avoid academic collaborations with Israel. Activities varied among the crowd, with some engaging in card games and others reflecting on the lives lost in Gaza through obituaries.

The situation took a turn when law enforcement arrived. Despite Tess's claims of compliance, she was arrested, handcuffed, and detained overnight.

Though initially charged with nonviolent resistance, the state eventually dropped the case against her. Regardless, the University of Florida barred her from campus. Officials had warned that violating the stringent new protest policies could lead to consequences. Reportedly, law enforcement instructed the crowd to disperse, but Tess noted that the noise made this inaudible.

Tess shared that this prohibition meant she missed out on her semester's final exam and a university-sanctioned summer program. Although a university committee concluded she was not disruptive, they found her in breach of university rules, suggesting a year's suspension. A further review by the new dean escalated the suspension to three years due to what was deemed a significant disturbance to university operations and law enforcement efforts. The university refrained from commenting, citing privacy protections.

The implications for Tess are daunting: failing to attend for over three semesters necessitates reapplying. Once benefiting from a full scholarship, she now works in food services, uncertain of her educational future.

This situation, situated in a broader climate of federal enforcement actions against non-citizen students, holds a particular paradox. Tess Segal is herself Jewish, making the case particularly poignant.