Colonialism is challenged but also reinforced on university campuses

The surge of student-led movements across the United States, opposing Israel’s actions in Gaza, underscores the enduring role of universities as incubators of social activism. Despite facing crackdowns from local authorities and university administrations, these students remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, challenging the false narratives perpetuated under the guise of campus security and anti-Semitism.
This resurgence of student activism echoes a rich history of dissent against colonialism and imperialism. Dating back to the 1530s, when Spanish students at the University of Bologna publicly denounced war during the violent colonization of the Americas, students have consistently stood against oppression. Their resilience has often been met with resistance, exemplified by the intervention of figures like Juan Ginés de Sepúlveda, dispatched by the Catholic Church to suppress dissent.
Throughout history, student movements have served as catalysts for change, confronting segregation, racism, and militarism. From the civil rights protests of the 1920s and 1930s to the anti-war demonstrations of the 1960s and the anti-apartheid sit-ins of the 1980s, students have been at the forefront of challenging injustice on a global scale.
However, it is essential to recognize that universities themselves are not immune to complicity in perpetuating colonial projects. Institutions of higher education, including prestigious universities like Harvard and Columbia, have been criticized for their investments in companies linked to illegal occupation or military activities. This complicity underscores the complex dynamics at play, as students mobilize not only against state violence but also against institutional support for oppressive systems.
Recent protests at Google offices highlight the interconnectedness of corporate interests and geopolitical conflicts, illustrating how student activism extends beyond campus borders. As young people continue to demand accountability and justice, their activism serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of student resistance in the face of systemic injustice.