MORNINGSIDE HEIGHTS, NY — Ramona Sarsgaard, the 18-year-old daughter of actor-director Maggie Gyllenhaal and actor Peter Sarsgaard, was among 80 individuals arrested during a pro-Palestine protest at Columbia University last week.
The demonstration took place inside Columbia’s Butler Library on Wednesday night as students prepared for final exams. According to police reports, protestors forced their way into Room 301, disrupting studies and reportedly injuring two campus security officers.
Sarsgaard was charged with criminal trespass and received a desk appearance ticket. NYPD officials said 78 protestors were given similar summonses, while two others were issued court dates.
The protest, organized by student activist groups, called on the university to divest from companies linked to Israel’s military actions. Protestors also criticized the school’s cooperation with federal immigration agents, referencing the recent detention of a graduate student.
Columbia’s acting president, Claire Shipman, condemned the protest, stating it disrupted studies for over 900 students and resulted in property damage and injuries. The university has since suspended more than 65 students and barred dozens more from campus, including some alumni.
The incident marks another chapter in ongoing campus activism tied to global conflicts and institutional policies. An investigation is ongoing.
