UCLA Protests Escalate: Palestinian Encampment Grows, Security Tightens
Heightened Tensions at Dickson Plaza
The ongoing protests at UCLA’s Dickson Plaza have taken a new turn as the pro-Palestinian encampment spreads into the campus and security forces increase presence to maintain separation between demonstrators.
At the heart of the conflict lies the demand for the university to divest itself from all investments in Israel and for an end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. As the encampment now occupies portions of the Powell Library and Royce Hall, tensions have escalated between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups.
Clash of Ideologies
“When you’ve had genocide carry on for this long, people are just not going to be able to live side by side with two governments in the way that it’s been suggested,” argued Luke Veltz, a supporter of Palestinian rights who donated to the encampment. “I believe a free Palestine is the only way forward.”
Counter-protesters, however, displayed images and shared stories of survivors just feet away from the encampment, advocating for the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas. Amidst the dueling demonstrations, heated exchanges occasionally took place, although the majority of the protests remained peaceful.
Security Intervention and Campus Closures
To prevent further escalation, UCLA security has been assigned to keep both sides separated. Security personnel prevented a small group of pro-Israeli demonstrators from accessing the barricade surrounding the encampment.
Overnight, campus police intervened in several fights that broke out between protesters. Subsequently, Royce Hall was closed until Friday, and Powell Library until Monday, to ensure the safety of students and campus community members.
USC Reevaluation
At the University of Southern California, the main commencement ceremony remains canceled, with smaller graduation ceremonies scheduled across campus. University President Carol Folt emphasized USC’s commitment to freedom of speech and peaceful protests. She has also established direct talks with representatives from the pro-Palestinian group Divest from Death USC.
Student Perspectives
UCLA students express support for the right to protest, emphasizing the need for a peaceful outcome. They urge protesters and law enforcement to avoid violence and abide by university regulations.
“There were reports of demonstrators in the encampment blocking students from getting to class,” university officials said, describing the behavior as “abhorrent” and potentially leading to “suspension or expulsion.”
“We are committed to maintaining public safety while allowing for free speech and peaceful protests,” Folt stated. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and respond appropriately.”
The situation at UCLA remains fluid as security forces work to ensure the safety of students and community members while respecting the right to peaceful protest.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
