In a satirical cold open on Saturday Night Live (SNL), the popular comedy show targeted the recent student anti-Israel protests, focusing specifically on the perspective of parents whose children attend Columbia University. The skit, featuring Kenan Thompson as a concerned father, shed light on the conflicting emotions experienced by parents who support activism but worry about their children's participation.

Thompson's character began the mock interview by applauding young people for standing up for their beliefs. However, when asked about his own daughter's involvement, he sternly stated, "She better have her butt in class. Let me find out she's in one of those damn tents instead of the dorm room that I pay for." This contradictory stance drew laughter from the audience, highlighting the inherent contradictions in parents supporting causes but expecting their kids to prioritize their education.

The skit humorously depicted Thompson's character expressing his support for other students protesting, while firmly asserting that his own children "know better." When questioned about the takeover of Hamilton Hall, an academic building on Columbia's campus, he responded, "That's good for y'alls' kids, but they ain't mine."

Adding a touch of comedic exaggeration, Thompson's character lamented the exorbitant tuition fees at Columbia University, citing the nerve of the institution to charge $68,000 per year. To cope with the financial burden, he jokingly listed a variety of odd jobs he undertakes, including Uber driving, grass-cutting, selling Gucci wallets from his truck, and even bounty hunting. The skit cleverly criticized the high cost of education while poking fun at the perceived value of his daughter's African-American studies degree.

Drawing attention to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Thompson's character sarcastically remarked on the irony of paying hefty tuition fees for his daughter to attend classes remotely on Zoom, specifically learning about the "applied history of the BET Awards." This jokingly highlighted the frustration and disappointment faced by parents who have invested significant resources in their children's college education during these challenging times.

The skit further emphasized the father's determination to witness his daughter's graduation, regardless of potential disruptions caused by the protests. With universities contemplating canceling graduation ceremonies due to ongoing anti-Israel demonstrations, Thompson's character vowed that Columbia would hold a graduation event, even if he had to organize it himself.

In reality, Columbia University's Hamilton Hall was cleared of protesters by the police on Tuesday, after being occupied since Monday. Students across various campuses have been participating in anti-Israel protests, urging their universities to divest from companies linked to Israel amidst the Israel-Hamas war.

While SNL's portrayal was comedic in nature, it shed light on the complexities faced by parents who grapple with supporting their children's activism while also prioritizing their education. The skit resonated with many viewers who understand the challenges of balancing personal beliefs, financial investments, and academic pursuits during a time of heightened social and political causes.

As SNL continues to provide a platform for social commentary, its satirical take on the student anti-Israel protests at Columbia University sparks discussion and humorously explores the dilemmas faced by parents in the midst of passionate activism.