New York, N.Y.–On October 4, 2006 the founder of the Minuteman Project was assaulted moments after
he began speaking. Students stormed the stage, brandishing a banner, as a further wave of
student protesters rushed the speaker in a pre-meditated and coordinated attack. Within
moments, the entire room erupted with the speaker’s entourage rushing to protect him
while Columbia Public Safety stood idly by. After fifteen chaotic minutes, the limited
security presence finally gained control and terminated the event.
We are ashamed for our university today in light of the actions of our peers and the
inaction of our administration. As the moderator onstage during the event, I was put in physical danger.
“The ability of political minorities to express themselves safely on campus has been
called into serious question tonight,” says Lucas Michelson, a junior in Columbia
College.
“This has jeopardized our ability to host future events,” says Lauren Steinberg, Executive
Director of the College Republicans.
Chris
Kulawik is the President of the Columbia University College Republicans.
