Are the Gaza protests the Gen-Z equivalent of the 1968 protests?

The echoes of history reverberate on the campus of Columbia University as students engage in mass protests reminiscent of the iconic demonstrations of 1968. Inspired by the anti-Vietnam War movement, today’s student activists have erected a protest camp in solidarity with Gaza, drawing parallels between their tactics and those of their predecessors.

Learning from the lessons of the past, the Columbia protesters have meticulously planned their encampment, inviting participants of the historic protests to share their experiences and insights. Their primary goal is to pressure the university to sever ties with Israeli academic institutions and divest from Israel-linked companies in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Despite facing a media campaign to discredit their movement, the students remain focused and strategic, implementing de-escalation and media training for protesters. With the aid of technology, they navigate new challenges such as digital security threats and surveillance.

The impact of their protests has reverberated beyond the campus, sparking solidarity demonstrations at universities nationwide and even internationally. As the movement gains momentum, the students reflect on the political landscape, questioning the viability of traditional options and calling for a new alternative.

With the Democratic National Convention on the horizon, the students vow to march in Chicago, echoing the historic protests of ’68. As the political climate intensifies, the specter of past elections looms large, reminding them of the potential consequences of their actions.

In a time of turmoil and uncertainty, the students of Columbia stand united, drawing inspiration from the past as they forge a path towards a future defined by activism and change.