Viral Video: A celebratory dinner for graduating law students at UC Berkeley turned into a heated confrontation captured on video. The clip, which has gone viral, shows a Palestinian Muslim student, Malak Afaneh, being told to leave the dean’s house after attempting to speak about the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Invitation and Interruption
watch the viral video here:
The incident unfolded at a gathering hosted by UC Berkeley School of Law Dean Erwin Chemerinsky and his wife, Professor Catherine Fisk. The evening was meant to be a farewell celebration for 60 graduating students. However, things took a turn when Afaneh, wearing a hijab and keffiyeh, stood up to deliver a speech.
“This is My House”: Tensions Flare
Afaneh’s greeting in Arabic and her mention of Ramadan were met with interruption. The video shows Chemerinsky, who is Jewish, and Fisk asking Afaneh to leave. The situation escalated further, with Fisk attempting to take away Afaneh’s microphone and stating, “This is not your house, and I want you to leave.”
Allegations of Assault and Violation of Free Speech
The footage depicts Afaneh arguing with the dean and his wife. Afaneh claims Fisk physically assaulted her and prevented her from exercising her right to free speech. Afaneh stated, “The aggression with which she ran at me…She saw my hijab and keffiyeh, and that was a risk for her.”
Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Debate
The viral video has sparked outrage and debate. Afaneh alleges assault and suppression of her voice. The university is yet to comment on the specifics of the incident. The clip has reignited discussions on free speech, cultural sensitivity, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on American campuses.
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER.
