(New York, NY) In response to the increasingly violent crackdown on peaceful student protests happening at Columbia, NYU, and colleges across New York State and the rest of the country, Rosemary Rivera, Executive Director of Citizen Action of New York, had this to say:
“In these tumultuous times, we find ourselves witnessing history in the making. Students across the globe are raising their voices to advocate for change, to stand up for what they believe is right, and to demand justice where it is long overdue. As an anti-war organization committed to change, we stand firmly behind students in their calls for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to police abuse of peaceful protestors.
“Throughout history, students have been at the forefront of movements that have reshaped societies and brought about lasting change. From the Civil Rights Movement to the fight against apartheid, from the push for women’s suffrage to the recent climate strikes, students have consistently demonstrated their courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. They have repeatedly shown that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the change-makers of today.
“Today, as students raise their voices in solidarity with the people of Gaza, who are enduring unimaginable suffering and loss, and against police abuse and the military state, which continues to inflict harm, we must listen and stand in support. We recognize that their demands for peace and justice are not only valid but essential for creating a more equitable and humane world.
“As an organization, we pledge our unwavering support to students exercising their right to protest and advocating for an end to the grief of the Palestinian people and divestment of resources from the US in any genocide. Let us stand shoulder to shoulder with our students on the right side of history. Let us amplify their voices, uphold their rights, and join them in pursuing a better world for all.”