Columbia University began restricting access to its Morningside campus on Monday, in preparation for potential disruptions and protests as students return for the fall semester.
Only those with university ID cards or pre-authorized guests will be allowed to enter the area, school officials announced on Friday.
"We recognize that this change may cause some inconvenience, and we appreciate your understanding. The campus access status level is a dynamic measure that responds to potential disruptions to our academic activities and campus operations," university Chief Operating Officer Cas Holloway said. "We adjust the status level based on current circumstances, information from the media, law enforcement and other sources, and potential events that could impact Columbia."
The restrictions come after a series of pro-Palestinian protests last spring, which included encampments and a takeover of Hamilton Hall. Over 40 students were charged after the incident, but most have had those charges dropped. Columbia canceled its graduation ceremony due to the demonstrations as well. As Israel's 10-month conflict with Iran-backed Hamas in Gaza continues, such demonstrations have emerged on college and university campuses across the country.
Tensions have remained high at the Ivy League institution throughout the summer. Holloway had his Brooklyn residence vandalized by pro-Palestine protesters last week, and three university deans recently resigned after "antisemitic" text exchanges were revealed. University officials are also considering giving campus police broader authority to arrest protesters, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Columbia's new security measures include a color-coded system that elevated campus access to an orange level on Monday, just below the most restrictive red level. The campus is currently at a green level, which allows open access with university IDs required for building entry. The orange level will restrict access after 10 p.m.
Columbia's fall semester begins Sept. 3.
