In a surprising turn of events, Sonoma State University President Mike Lee has been placed on leave following the release of a controversial campuswide message regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. The move comes after Lee endorsed divestment strategies and an academic boycott of Israeli universities, without seeking appropriate approvals.

California State University Chancellor Mildred García announced Lee's suspension in a statement posted on the CSU website, citing his "insubordination" in making the statement without authorization. The decision has garnered mixed reactions from the student body and the larger community.

Lee's statement drew attention from pro-Palestinian student activists who have been staging an encampment on campus. These activists celebrated when Lee released a letter meeting some of their demands, leading to the dismantling of their camp by Wednesday evening. The SSU Students for Justice in Palestine Instagram account posted screenshots of Lee's letter, expressing their satisfaction with the progress made.

Lee's letter outlined his commitment to pursuing divestment strategies and boycotting formal collaborations with Israeli academic and research institutions. While other universities, such as UC Berkeley and UC Riverside, have considered divesting from weapons companies, few have specifically targeted Israel or endorsed academic boycotts against it. Universities have consistently cited their support for academic freedom and anti-discrimination policies for their opposition to such measures.

Unsurprisingly, Lee's statement received backlash from Jewish students, parents, and community groups. Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California conference attendee Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis criticized the campuses for agreeing to protesters' demands, arguing that they did not have the authority to make such agreements. Kounalakis spoke before Lee was placed on leave and emphasized that campuses were ill-prepared for recent protests.

In response to the controversy, Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his opposition to divestment and supported countering antisemitism. Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel and Senator Scott Wiener of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus commended Chancellor García's decision, deeming Lee's support for an academic boycott as "totally unacceptable."

Chancellor García stated her deep concern regarding the impact of Lee's words on the Sonoma State community. She emphasized the CSU's mission to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. In his own letter, Lee expressed remorse for the unintended consequences of his actions, apologizing for marginalizing other members of the student population.

The duration of Lee's leave is still unclear. He has served as the university president for 20 months, half of which was in an interim capacity. The Sonoma State Academic Senate has not yet released a statement regarding Lee's announcement.

The controversy surrounding this incident highlights the ongoing debates and tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on college campuses. It remains to be seen how Sonoma State University will move forward in addressing this issue and fostering a climate of inclusivity, respectful dialogue, and peace.