State: New York
City: New York City
Campus: Columbia University (Columbia)
In April 2024, professional agitator Lisa Fithian instructed anti-Israel activists at Columbia University’s illegal “Gaza Solidarity Encampment.” She was filmed coaching protesters as they barricaded themselves inside an academic building. Fithian told them: “You can tie it right to the lock!” while activists zip-tied doors and blocked entrances. She also stood alongside protesters chanting: “Israel is a terrorist state!”
Encouraging Escalation
Fithian was present during the takeover of Columbia’s Hamilton Hall, where protesters smashed glass doors, broke security cameras, and held three custodians hostage. NYPD later found knives, hammers, gas masks, ropes, and pamphlets inside calling for “DEATH TO ISRAEL” and “LONG LIVE THE INTIFADA.”
History of Anti-Israel Activism
Fithian has a long record of radical activism:
In 2003, she worked with the International Solidarity Movement (ISM), acting as a “human shield” for Palestinians in Jenin and Nablus. ISM has been accused of supporting terrorism.
In 2016, she trained participants for the Women’s Boat to Gaza, part of the Freedom Flotilla Coalition (FFC), a campaign to challenge Israel’s blockade of Gaza.
In April 2024, she again served as a “direct action trainer” for FFC participants in Istanbul, wearing a shirt reading “LIBERATE PALESTINE.”
Background
Fithian has been arrested dozens of times throughout her activist career. She graduated from Skidmore College in 1983 with a degree in social work and, as of June 2024, was based in Chatham, New York.
