Pro-Palestinian protesters breached police blockades to access an encampment at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, advocating for an end to violence in Gaza due to MIT’s research ties with the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
Concurrently, Columbia University canceled its main commencement ceremony amidst ongoing pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Demonstrators at both institutions aimed to raise awareness about the Gaza conflict and university ties to the Israeli government, with protests spilling onto Boston streets during rush hour.
Columbia’s decision to cancel its main ceremony, replacing it with smaller, school-based celebrations, came after discussions with students. Similar disruptions occurred at Emory University, which relocated its commencement due to protests. The impact of COVID-19 on 2020 high school graduations further complicates university ceremonies, with cancellations and alterations affecting campuses nationwide.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators breach barriers to reclaim MIT encampment (Credits: Idaho State Journal)
Amidst escalating tensions, universities grapple with maintaining inclusive campuses while respecting free expression. The University of Southern California and the University of California, Los Angeles, faced encampment clearances and arrests, prompting security concerns. Protests demanding divestment from companies supporting Israel’s military efforts reverberated across campuses, including demands for action from Georgetown University and the University of California, San Diego.
The Gaza conflict, which began with Hamas attacks on Israel, has sparked global protests. Israeli strikes have resulted in significant casualties, primarily among civilians, prompting calls for intervention and divestment from affected universities. Despite cease-fire proposals, such as one accepted by Hamas, the situation remains volatile, fueling ongoing protests and demands for institutional accountability.
University responses vary, from offering amnesty to protesters to threatening disciplinary action. Harvard University, for instance, warned participants in a pro-Palestinian encampment of potential repercussions, illustrating the diverse approaches institutions are taking to manage demonstrations while upholding campus safety and academic integrity.
