As was the case at other universities and colleges in Southern California, Groups of pro-Palestinian protesters set up camp on the campus of Cal State University Los Angeles.
According to members of the called group Students for Justice in Palestinethe camp’s goal is to defend Gaza and demand that the institution stop funding Israeli interests.
“We want our university to stop investing in Israel”In these companies that finance genocide, companies like Boeing, we want them to stop recruiting our students for genocide,” said a student member of the group, who did not want to provide her name.
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Students who did not participate in the demonstration had mixed reactions, saying that their classmates had the right to express their opinion, but mentioning that the camp was blocking areas of the campus and that the protesters had already committed acts of vandalism and graffiti.
“You can protest and do your thing as long as you don’t vandalize private property here. Because our school doesn’t receive as much funding anymore, a lot of our things are already destroyed with things happening in certain buildings,” said a Cal State University LA student.
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Among the universities in Southern California where pro-Palestinian camps were set up, the University of Southern California and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).
Both camps generated great controversy and finally Law enforcement had to intervene to remove the protesters in the midst of clashes, which left some damage to the facilities.
This Monday, UCLA officials decided to change in-person classes to remote during the week for continued disruptions after 43 protesters were detained in a campus parking lot in the morning.
The authorities of Cal State University Los Angeles issued a statement in which they expressed that, while they support freedom of expression, The demonstrations have been associated with graffiti, including anti-Semitic messagesin addition to a block of access to the campus.
“During the weekend, several state buildings and properties were defaced with graffiti, including messages with anti-Semitic rhetoric. “We want to recognize how deeply disturbing these messages are to specific groups and emphasize that they do not reflect the values of Cal State University Los Angeles,” officials said in their brief.
University officials reiterated that the institution unequivocally supports freedom of expression on campuswhich is demonstrated by recent activities.
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“The transfer and destruction of property, graffiti, the construction of structures, blocking hallways and fireworks are illegal acts“, they added.
University authorities said that allowing these activities, is endangering students, teachers, staff and all visitorsat risk on campus, particularly to people with physical disabilities who need clear entry and exit access.
“The safety and well-being of everyone on campus It is a priority that we will not compromise“Cal State University Los Angeles officials reiterated.
Keep reading: Students in the US maintain protests against the war in Gaza despite suspensions and arrests
In its statement, the university said that Attacking specific groups will not be tolerated through intimidation or acts of physical violence.
“We support peaceful protests and demonstrations. “We believe in the power of using our voices, individually and collectively, to effect positive change,” the university said.
“We are dedicated to commitment, service and the public good, but we cannot tolerate illegal activities that put people’s safety and well-being at risk,” said Cal State University Los Angeles officials.
Keep reading:
· Protesters clash on UCLA campus in protests against military actions in Gaza
· Los Angeles Police issue tactical alert in the city due to pro-Palestinian demonstration at USC
· Student demonstrations in support of Palestine increase at US universities.