Democracy Now! Audio Democracy Now! 2025-08-04 Monday
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Aug 4, 2025 In this thought-provoking discussion, Rashid Khalidi, Edward Said Professor Emeritus of Modern Arab Studies, addresses the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza marked by violence and starvation. He reflects on the impact of student activism and the chilling effects of institutional policies on academic freedom. The conversation delves into global protests for Palestinian rights and the complex relationship between the U.S. and the ongoing conflict, providing a critical lens on democracy and human rights.
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Columbia's Academic Surveillance Deal
- Columbia University's agreement with the Trump administration imposes strict surveillance on academic discussions on Palestine and Israel.
- This restricts teaching on topics related to genocide, colonialism, and the Holocaust, limiting academic freedom drastically.
IHRA Definition Misused
- The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's (IHRA) definition of anti-Semitism conflates criticism of Israel with anti-Jewish sentiment.
- This definition is being weaponized to punish academic and campus speech critical of Israel or Zionism.
Columbia's Deal Invades Autonomy
- Columbia's acting president claims the deal aligns with university values, but faculty see it as enforcing government control over speech.
- The imposed government-appointed monitor is likened to a stasi, invading academic independence and free speech.
