Cornell University professor Russell Rickford, already under fire for controversial remarks about the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, has sparked fresh outrage. He participated in an anti-Israel protest on campus this week, where protesters were heard chanting “long live the intifada.”
Rickford, seen wearing a keffiyeh, marched alongside anti-Israel supporters carrying Palestinian flags and signs like “Cornell divest from genocide.” The protest grew louder as it made its way to a career fair at the Statler Hotel, causing disruption.
While Rickford didn’t enter the fair, his presence, along with the aggressive actions of some protesters, was enough to provoke strong reactions.
Joel Malina, Cornell’s vice president of university relations, condemned the disruption, stating, “Guests of the university felt threatened. Students were denied their opportunity to attend the career fair.” The protest was labeled as a violation of university policies, with disciplinary actions being promised for those involved.
Jewish students voiced their disapproval of Rickford’s involvement, with one calling his presence “insane” and accusing him of “emboldening hate.” Video footage of the protest also captured chants of “long live the intifada,” fueling further criticism.
Rickford, who specializes in African American political culture, has faced backlash before. Last year, he described Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack, which killed 1,200 people, as “exhilarating” and “energizing.” Though he later apologized and took a leave of absence, his return to campus has reignited tensions.
The university reiterated that his earlier remarks were protected under academic freedom, as they were made off-campus during a political rally. However, his latest involvement is now under scrutiny.
