In the aftermath of the 1968 Columbia University protests, where students clashed with the Tactical Patrol Force, a sense of empowerment had been unleashed among the young protestors. The chaos and destruction left in the wake of the sit-ins had been quelled, but the belief that students could make a difference in the world had been firmly planted. The iconic account of the events, “The Strawberry Statement” by James Simon Kunen, captures the mix of causes, ideals, frustrations, and excitement that characterized the protests. Students at the time were driven to action by their opposition to the Vietnam War and their displeasure with their university’s ties to government research supporting the war effort.
The parallels between the 1968 student protests and current activism on college campuses are striking. Just as students then were driven by the graphic images of war shown on television, today’s students are motivated by the images of conflict in Gaza that they see on their phones in real-time. The demands for action and social change remain consistent across generations of college students. In both eras, students have called on their institutions to sever ties with entities supporting causes they oppose, such as Columbia University’s ties to companies profiting from Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Debates continue to stir around the role of universities in addressing social issues and protecting students from discrimination. While universities have a responsibility to maintain order and protect all students, they must ultimately answer to their student and faculty bodies rather than outside political influences or donors. The focus should be on fostering open dialogue and providing a safe and inclusive environment for all members of the campus community. The spirit of activism and desire to fight injustice that drove the 1968 protests are still alive among today’s college students, who are not afraid to speak out against inequality and take action to effect change.
Reflecting on his own experience as a participant in the 1968 protests, the author acknowledges that the events of that spring had a lasting impact on his worldview and approach to journalism. The willingness of college students to stand up against injustice and suffering is a testament to the enduring spirit of activism that has persisted across generations. The legacy of the Columbia University protests lives on in the continued activism and calls for social change among today’s college students, who are unafraid to challenge the status quo and demand accountability from their institutions. The commitment to publish diverse viewpoints and letters to the editor demonstrates the ongoing importance of open dialogue and discussion in shaping the future of higher education and society as a whole.
