Staff Reports
Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington, D.C., and Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela Smith are scheduled to appear before the House Oversight Committee to address concerns about pro-Palestinian protests at George Washington University. The House Republicans have called for a “crackdown” on antisemitism on college campuses in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The hearing, titled “Oversight of D.C.’s Response to Unlawful Activity and Antisemitism,” will address the reported refusal of the Metropolitan Police Department to clear the pro-Palestinian encampments at the university, despite requests for assistance from the university.
The House Oversight and Education and the Workforce committees have demanded answers from district leadership over the alleged refusal of police to clear the encampments. Committee leaders have expressed concern that the police’s reluctance to intervene may hinder efforts to protect the safety of Jewish students from persecution and harassment. They have emphasized the need for the police to provide assistance in clearing the encampments, stating that it is essential to protect all students on campus.
Additionally, Representative Josh Gottheimer has circulated a letter urging Mayor Bowser to intervene and protect all students on the George Washington University campus. The letter highlights the university’s previous request for MPD assistance and emphasizes the Mayor’s obligation to eradicate hatred and protect the community from hate.
The concerns expressed by House Republicans and Representative Gottheimer underscore the need for effective measures to address antisemitism and ensure the safety of all students on college campuses. The upcoming hearing will provide an opportunity for Mayor Bowser and Chief Smith to address these concerns and outline their response to the situation at George Washington University.
