Susan Sarandon joins Columbia University students in Pro-Palestinian march after NYPD raid

The "Thelma & Louise" actress had words of strength for students at the Ivy-League school embroiled in controversy

By Griffin Eckstein

News Fellow

Published April 19, 2024 10:32PM (EDT)

Members of more than 20 organizations gather for the demonstration and march in support of Palestinians as they unite against Zionism on International Day of Al-Quds in Times Square of New York City, on Friday, April 5, 2024.The Academy Award-winning actress, Susan Sarandon attends and speaks in the rally in Times Square, New York.  (Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Members of more than 20 organizations gather for the demonstration and march in support of Palestinians as they unite against Zionism on International Day of Al-Quds in Times Square of New York City, on Friday, April 5, 2024.The Academy Award-winning actress, Susan Sarandon attends and speaks in the rally in Times Square, New York. (Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Actress Susan Sarandon had words of encouragement for embattled students protesting for a ceasefire in Gaza at Columbia University, saying, “It is their right in a democracy, especially in a place of education and supposedly higher thought.”

The “Thelma & Louise” star and native New Yorker was spotted marching outside Columbia University just a day after University administration approved an NYPD sweep against student protestors, resulting in over 100 arrests.

“You give me hope, to me and so many people,” the Academy Award winner said, leading student chants. “And in the end the truth will win.”

The actress showed support for student demonstrators alongside the Palestinian movement, a cause for which she has previously been a vocal advocate. In November of last year, the United Talent Agency dropped Sarandon after she appeared at a pro-Palestinian rally. She also attended a March rally near New York University. Sarandon’s activism dates back to the invasion of Iraq, when she publicly advocated against a war.

"To be attacked by racism and intolerance is not acceptable," Sarandon said. "There are many, many people who stand with you. You must know, you inspire so many people."

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