In an interview with the Financial Times, billionaire hedge fund founder Ken Griffin voiced his disapproval of the social justice "narrative" prevalent on some American college campuses amidst the protests over Israel's war in Gaza. Griffin referred to the current protests as a consequence of a cultural revolution in American education, criticizing the paradigm of the oppressor and the oppressed that he believes is being used. He likened the protests to "performative art" that does not contribute to the welfare of Palestinians or Israelis.

Since the attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7th and Israel's subsequent response in Gaza, campuses across the United States have been embroiled in turmoil. Thousands of arrests have been made at colleges, and several Ivy League university presidents, including Harvard, have stepped down. Graduation ceremonies have been canceled amidst growing tensions.

Griffin, along with other Wall Street figures, has been actively expressing his views on the protests, particularly at prestigious institutions. In January, he criticized Harvard students as "whiny snowflakes" and halted his donations to the university, which had exceeded $500 million. Griffin also drew a comparison between the situation at Harvard and Columbia, where protests were dispersed by police raids last month.

When the Financial Times asked Griffin about Harvard's next steps, he emphasized the importance of the university standing for meritocracy in America. He called for Harvard to educate the next generation of leaders in various fields such as business, government, healthcare, and philanthropy. Griffin urged Harvard to embrace Western values, which he believes have contributed to the success of the nation.

Harvard has not yet responded to Fortune's request for comment regarding Griffin's statements. Meanwhile, fellow hedge fund manager Bill Ackman has also been critical of college protests and initiatives focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Ackman faced backlash at the Milken Institute Global Conference for his views, with panelists and audience members arguing that his stance was detrimental to the progress of women and people of color in America.

The business community has had mixed reactions to the protests, with some companies stating that they will not hire students who participated in the demonstrations, while others have expressed their support. Recruitment experts have differing opinions on the impact these protests will have on students' job prospects.

President Joe Biden has defended the right of students to peacefully protest but has rejected their demands for a change in his approach towards the Gaza conflict. He emphasized the importance of maintaining order on college campuses.

A forthcoming White House report on the use of U.S.-provided weapons in Gaza is expected to be critical of Israel but does not conclude that Israel violated the terms of their use.