Hundreds of college students, faculty members, and others protested in New York City and at Columbia University demanding answers about the federal detention of pro-Palestinian organizers and what they perceive as an assault on higher education. The protesters criticized Columbia's leadership for not challenging demands by the Trump administration and condemned the growing authoritarian crackdown on universities. The university appeared to adopt a tougher tone, pledging not to relinquish its independence and autonomy. The protest included professors, librarians, and international students who expressed their concerns about feeling unsafe and the need to stand up for international students.