UCLA Security Guards Spark Controversy by Blocking Disabled Man from Pro-Palestinian Protest
Unlawful Barricades and Excessive Force Raise Concerns
At the heart of UCLA’s sprawling Westwood campus, a disturbing incident unfolded on Tuesday, April 30th. Campus security guards were captured on video physically hindering a disabled man from accessing a public walkway leading to Powell Library.
Protestors Block Public Areas
The walkway has been blocked since Thursday by a pro-Palestinian encampment that has taken over Dickson Plaza. This encampment and a security buffer zone have effectively blocked one of the main campus entrances, forcing students and the public to take a different, more circuitous route to the library.
Confrontation at the Barricades
On Tuesday morning, a man with a crutch tried to make his way through the barricade, prompting several security guards to physically restrain him. The man fell to the ground, and his crutch was kicked away from him. He eventually got back up and approached a guard holding the crutch, but the guard cast it aside to prevent further escalation.
“I’m disabled,” the man stated. “I’m simply trying to get to the other side.” The man, a UCLA alumnus, requested anonymity.
Injury and Further Altercation
An injury was sustained during the confrontation, as depicted in an image captured by KTLA. The man was left with a visible wound.
LA News Center Issues Repeated Inquiries
LA News Center has repeatedly reached out to UCLA officials regarding the protesters blocking public areas in violation of school regulations, but no response has been forthcoming. However, Bruins Safe Online has issued a notice advising students and faculty to avoid certain areas on campus.
Statement from UCLA
In a press release, UCLA administration stated their commitment to the safety and well-being of students while also supporting freedom of expression. However, they acknowledged the imperative to minimize disruptions to academic activities.
Pro-Palestinian Demands
The pro-Palestinian demonstrators are urging an end to the 200-day conflict between Israel and Hamas and pressing for UCLA to divest from all business interests connected to Israel.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
