UC Berkeley to host remote talk by controversial former professor Mohamed Abdou

UC Berkeley has confirmed it will not cancel a scheduled remote presentation by Mohamed Abdou, a former Columbia University professor, despite acknowledging the event may upset the Jewish community. Abdou, who was dismissed from Columbia after expressing support for Hamas following the October 7 attacks, is scheduled to speak via Zoom to students on October 6, one day before the third anniversary of the attacks.

Abdou is currently conducting a speaking tour titled “Death to the Akademy.” He has previously drawn criticism for remarks made to NYU students, where he encouraged a “hate for America” and spoke regarding the theme of martyrdom. The event is being organized by the UC Berkeley Students for Justice in Palestine group.

A university spokesperson stated that the institution will not cancel the event “based on fears or expectations of what might be expressed,” noting that Abdou will not be physically present on campus. The university also indicated it is engaging with the Chancellor’s Advisory Committee for Jewish Life to provide support to campus community members during the event.