Lake Yosemite, adjacent to UC Merced, has been closed until further notice due to ongoing pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus, as reported by the Merced County Sheriff’s Office. The closure comes in anticipation of heightened activities coinciding with the UC Regents’ meeting at UC Merced.

Protests and Demands

Students at UC Merced are rallying for Palestinian rights and urging a cessation of hostilities. They demand that the UC system divest from companies alleged to supply weapons to Israel. Jenen Barakate, President of the Students for Justice in Palestine UC Merced chapter, emphasized the significance of their activism, asserting that even a small campus like UC Merced can make a resounding statement.

Safety Measures

The closure of Lake Yosemite aims to ensure the safety of both students and locals amidst potential unrest linked to the protests. Authorities stress the peaceful nature of the demonstrations, emphasizing unity among students nationwide, particularly within the UC system.

Students’ Stance

Echoing concerns echoed by their counterparts across the nation, UC Merced students argue that tuition fees and taxpayer money should prioritize domestic needs rather than funding military endeavors. They advocate for academic freedom, calling for protection and amnesty for students exercising their constitutional rights to assemble and protest.

Campus Activism

Students have maintained a continuous presence on the UC Merced campus since Sunday, underscoring their commitment to their cause. They underscore the importance of their encampment as a manifestation of their demands being heard.

UC Regents Meeting and Public Commentary

As the UC Regents convene, investments take center stage on the agenda. A public comment session is scheduled during Tuesday’s meeting, focusing on UC’s investment practices. UC Merced disseminated information about the ongoing situation via their official channels, affirming their awareness and engagement with the developments.

Conclusion: Support for Palestinian Rights

The closure of Lake Yosemite underscores the intensity and significance of the pro-Palestinian protests unfolding at UC Merced. Students’ demands for justice and divestment reflect broader sentiments echoing across campuses nationwide. As they persist in their activism, their voices reverberate in calls for solidarity and change.

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