Brooklyn, New York saw a tumultuous protest over the weekend, as the New York Police Department detained 34 individuals following a pro-Palestinian demonstration that culminated in damage to artwork and harassment of staff at the Brooklyn Museum. The protest, organized by the New York-based Palestinian group Within Our Lifetime, aimed to pressure the museum into disclosing and divesting from investments related to Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip.
Beginning at the Barclays Center on Friday afternoon, protesters made their way to the Brooklyn Museum by early evening. The demonstration spilled into the museum, where individuals reportedly obstructed entrances and displayed banners both inside and outside the building. Museum spokesperson Taylor Maatman noted unfortunate instances of damage to artwork and harassment directed at the security staff.
Videos reviewed by NBC News showed police attempting to control the situation and secure the museum from the crowd. Within Our Lifetime shared on social media accounts of their leader being arrested and mistreated during the protest. The museum took precautionary measures by closing an hour early to safeguard the building, collections, and staff.
This protest is part of a broader wave of pro-Palestinian actions across the United States in recent months, with universities like Columbia, New York University, and the University of California, Santa Cruz experiencing similar demonstrations. These events have led to over 3,000 arrests on college and university campuses, emphasizing growing support for Palestinian causes among American students.
Following the unrest, Chancellor Cynthia Larive addressed the University of California, Santa Cruz community, acknowledging the attempts to avoid law enforcement involvement during the protest. She emphasized the disruptions caused by the encampment were detrimental to the university community, defending the decision to seek assistance in clearing the protest area.
Overall, the demonstrations in Brooklyn and on university campuses highlight a growing movement advocating for support of Palestinian rights and criticizing Israel’s actions in the ongoing conflict. As tensions continue to simmer, these protests serve as a reminder of the widespread impact and importance of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on a global scale.