Muslim groups and left wing students across numerous universities in the United States and Canada persist in their demonstrations advocating for Palestinians, even after months of conflict in Gaza.
The majority of the groups involved in these protests and encampments on campuses share common demands with their administrations. These demands include divestment from companies potentially profiting from the conflict and transparency regarding investment strategies.
While many universities express support for freedom of speech and permit protests on campus, they maintain that encampments violate school policies. Recent arrests occurred at institutions like Northeastern University, where crackdowns on encampments led to the detention of around 100 individuals.
Here are the latest updates on campus activities nationwide:
George Washington University
Officials at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., announced measures to suspend students participating in on-campus encampments and restrict the encampment size. They also clarified that an off-campus encampment falls under the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan Police Department.
New Orleans
In New Orleans, police arrested at least 10 individuals during a pro-Palestinian protest, which involved students from Loyola and Tulane Universities. The protest resulted in injuries to four police officers as they cleared demonstrators from Jackson Square.
UCLA
Skirmishes broke out between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups at the University of California, Los Angeles. No arrests or injuries were reported, but tensions escalated as the groups clashed near an expanding pro-Palestinian encampment.
University of Southern California
Following vandalism on campus property, including the Tommy Trojan statue, the University of Southern California denounced disruptive behavior by individuals associated with an encampment. The university emphasized its support for freedom of expression but condemned acts of vandalism and harassment.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Negotiations between student protesters and administrators at MIT reached an impasse, with students rejecting compromises and continuing demonstrations. MIT officials expressed disappointment with the lack of progress and the disruption of campus events by protesting students.
Emerson College
Emerson College saw arrests as law enforcement dispersed an encampment on campus. The college stated it would not pursue disciplinary action against protesters and would advocate against legal charges.
University of Mary Washington
The University of Mary Washington arrested 12 individuals, including nine students, for trespassing after prohibiting an encampment on campus. The university reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating peaceful expression while maintaining campus safety.
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Northeastern University
Northeastern University reported detaining approximately 100 individuals involved in a pro-Palestinian protest. The university condemned the use of anti-Semitic language during the protest and emphasized its commitment to campus safety.
Columbia University
Pro-Palestinian demonstrations continued at Columbia University, with ongoing negotiations between students and administrators. Despite the prolonged encampment, no student arrests were reported.
Portland State University
Portland State University paused receiving donations from Boeing following community concerns about the company’s alleged involvement in Palestinian issues. Students accused Boeing of complicity in the occupation and genocide in Palestine.
Arizona State University
Arrests occurred at Arizona State University as individuals established an encampment on campus. The university stated that most of those arrested were not affiliated with the institution.
Indiana University
Indiana University arrested 23 individuals for refusing to remove structures violating university policy. Charges included criminal trespass and resisting law enforcement.
Washington University
More than 80 arrests were made at Washington University in St. Louis after individuals refused to disperse from an unauthorized encampment. Charges ranged from trespassing to resisting arrest and assault.
