Columbia University Sued for Failing to Protect Janitors During Anti-Israel Protests

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) has filed a lawsuit against Columbia University for failing to safeguard janitors during a violent takeover of an academic building by pro-Palestinian protesters. The union alleges that the university exhibited a reckless disregard for the safety of its workers.

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) has initiated legal proceedings against Columbia University for failing to protect custodial staff during the violent occupation of Hamilton Hall by pro-Palestinian demonstrators on April 30.

TWU President John Samuelsen expressed outrage over Columbia's negligence, stating that the university had "an epic disregard" for the well-being of its workforce. According to the New York Post, at least two custodians and a security guard were present when masked protesters stormed the building.

One of the affected workers, speaking to The Free Press, described the terrifying experience: "How the hell am I going to get out of here now? You see the chaos… and you start hearing them and what they're doing, and you're like… this is a movie."

The chaos erupted at around 12:30 a.m. when anti-Israel protesters stormed Hamilton Hall, barricading doors and shattering windows. Columbia officials had been suspending students for failing to leave the campus encampment, which may have escalated the situation.

"They held me hostage," a worker who was trapped in the building told the Columbia Spectator, expressing fears for the safety of TWU staff. Samuelsen further emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that custodians were explicitly prevented from leaving by protesters who claimed their cause superseded the safety of the workers.

Police eventually arrested 282 individuals and dismantled the illegal encampments, revealing that half of those apprehended were external agitators. The TWU expressed dismay and outrage at Columbia's inaction, particularly the failure to protect its workers from protesters who attempted to confine them within the building.

The lawsuit alleges that Columbia, despite being aware of the potential for violence, failed to provide adequate security measures. The TWU argues that the university's negligence left its workers vulnerable to harm and constitutes a breach of its duty to protect its employees.

The lawsuit has sparked widespread condemnation and concern, highlighting the importance of worker safety and the need for institutions to prioritize the well-being of their employees. The TWU's action sends a clear message that universities cannot disregard the responsibility to safeguard their workforces during periods of heightened tension and unrest.