Los Angeles, California – Police in riot gear descended on UCLA in response to a new pro-Palestinian encampment that appeared on campus Thursday. The encampment, consisting of at least two tents on the Kerckhoff patio, was met with a strong police presence and warnings from campus officials about potential disciplinary and legal actions.
Protesters attempted to deliver water to the encampment, but were blocked by officers. The encampment disrupted campus operations, resulting in classes in surrounding buildings being shifted to online format. Campus officials alerted protesters that failure to disperse could lead to arrest and possible disciplinary actions.
The encampment developed on the same day as UCLA Chancellor Gene Block testified before a congressional hearing on campus antisemitism. A second-year PhD student voiced support for the Palestinian solidarity actions on campus, framing the congressional inquiry as an attempt to suppress student protest.
The encampment sparked tensions on campus, with some Jewish students feeling intimidated by the protesters’ activities. However, protesters remained determined in their support for Palestine and their call to end violence in Gaza.
The response to the protests highlighted tensions between the academic workers union and the UC system. The union announced an expansion of their ongoing strike to UCLA and UC Davis, demanding protection for free speech on campuses and divestment from companies profiting from the conflict in Gaza.
The university faced criticism over its handling of the situation, leading to the removal and reassignment of the UCLA Police Chief. Despite efforts to halt the strike, union members remained steadfast in their calls for negotiation and dialogue.
The encampment at UCLA is part of a larger trend of pro-Palestinian activism on college campuses across the country. As tensions continue to rise, the conflict between free speech rights and campus safety remains at the forefront of the discussion. The university’s response to the protests has drawn scrutiny and raised questions about its commitment to upholding the rights of its community members.