Cambridge, Massachusetts – Pro-Palestine activists have set up an encampment in Harvard Yard to protest the suspension of the Harvard Undergraduate Palestine Solidarity Committee and call for divestment from Israel’s actions in Gaza. The encampment, marked as the largest protest at Harvard since the resignation of former University President Claudine Gay, has drawn a smaller group of students who set up tents while hundreds rallied in front of the John Harvard statue.
The establishment of the encampment follows restrictions placed by the University limiting access to Harvard Yard to only Harvard University ID holders in anticipation of pro-Palestine demonstrations. Signs were posted notifying students that setting up tents or tables without permission could lead to disciplinary action.
This protest adds to a series of student demonstrations nationwide, with students facing arrests at Yale, Columbia, and New York University. Nearby universities like MIT, Emerson College, and Tufts University have also seen students setting up encampments in protest of the war in Gaza.
University officials, including interim Harvard President Alan M. Garber ’76, have not ruled out the use of police in response to student protests, emphasizing a “very, very high bar” for their involvement. Calls to boycott Israel have been strongly opposed by university officials.
The encampment, organized by pro-Palestine activists, has seen over 100 protesters remaining in the Yard, with some prepared to sleep overnight. The group has organized different levels of risk involvement, with some willing to be arrested and others ready to face disciplinary action from the Harvard College Administrative Board.
As the encampment continues, Harvard spokesperson Jason A. Newton stated that university administrators are closely monitoring the situation to prioritize the safety and security of the campus community. Despite the protests, a group of students elsewhere on campus celebrated the last day of spring classes with food trucks and music, highlighting the contrast in activities occurring simultaneously on campus.
In a show of solidarity, protesters have received support from various organizations and individuals. Harvard Out of Occupied Palestine, citing past student protests against apartheid in South Africa, has called for divestment and disclosure of Harvard’s investments related to Palestine. The encampment has drawn attention on social media, with even musician Thomas B. Morello encouraging the protesters for their activism.
Continuing to advocate for their demands, the protesters have remained steadfast in their cause, emphasizing the importance of their demonstration and the need for justice and freedom for Palestine. The encampment is expected to continue, with students prepared for any potential challenges that may arise as they strive to amplify their voices and bring attention to the issues they passionately advocate for.