Over 2,300 people have been detained at over 45 universities in the country so far. Protests against divestment from companies profiting from the war in Gaza have led to varying responses from universities. Schools in Minnesota, Michigan, and Rhode Island have considered or planned to divest funds, while Rutgers University in New Jersey announced plans to create a Middle Eastern studies department.
In California, police entered the campus multiple times at the University of Southern California and the Art Institute of Chicago to remove occupants without making arrests, leading to the closure of their campuses before graduation festivities. Some schools have scaled back graduation celebrations due to peaceful protests. At the University of Virginia, over 25 people were arrested during a protest.
Pro-Palestinian protests have been ongoing at universities across the United States, focusing on graduation ceremonies scheduled for May. Some schools have canceled their celebrations or implemented security measures similar to those used at international summits, with police presence and entry searches.
The situation has become a focal point in the political arena, with both major parties closely monitoring the situation as the upcoming presidential election draws near. Republicans have called for harsh measures against protesters and denounced anti-Semitism, while Democrats are working to address the protests and potential electoral impacts. President Biden has faced criticism for his response to the protests and is planning to address the issue in various events. College Democrats have warned the party about the risk of losing support if immediate action is not taken to address the concerns of young voters regarding the protests. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for the upcoming election.
Overall, it is clear that university campuses across America are becoming increasingly polarized and divided over issues such as divestment from companies profiting from wars abroad and peaceful protests focused on social justice issues like Black Lives Matter and Palestinian rights. As a journalist covering this issue, it is important to stay informed about developments on college campuses across America and how they may impact society as a whole.
