LOS ANGELES – Law enforcement authorities made 93 arrests during a significant pro-Palestinian demonstration at the University of Southern California (USC). The protest, known as the “Gaza Solidarity Occupation,” unfolded amidst a broader wave of college rallies across the nation supporting Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Police Intervention and Arrests

On Wednesday, around 5 p.m., officers from the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) intervened, issuing a dispersal order to the protesters on USC’s campus. Subsequently, by approximately 10 p.m., 93 demonstrators had been peacefully arrested, as reported by LAPD.

SkyFOX footage captured the moment when protesters were detained, depicting a calm process of removal. LAPD officers cleared Alumni Park of various items, including megaphones and tents, while some demonstrators attempted to prevent their removal by marching around the park with their tents.

USC Response and Community Impact

Following the demonstration, USC President Carol Folt released a full-page statement addressing the incident. The university also alerted students, faculty, and staff of the campus closure due to the ongoing activity, allowing only limited access with USC IDs.

The protest sparked reactions from various quarters, including the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles, expressing concerns over the escalation of tensions and the impact on Jewish students. In a statement, the Federation emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of all students while advocating for peaceful dialogue.

Campus Dynamics and Official Statements

Amid the protest, USC Provost Andrew T. Guzman highlighted that many participants did not appear affiliated with USC and reiterated the university’s policies against erecting tents or disrupting campus activities. Despite repeated requests, protesters refused to comply, leading to confrontations that endangered the safety of officers and the campus community.

The protest organizers, including USC’s Divest from Death Coalition and National Students for Justice in Palestine, outlined demands for the university, such as transparency in endowments, an academic boycott of Israel, and immediate action to cease hostilities in Gaza. These demands underscored broader calls for solidarity and divestment from Israel.

Controversy Over Graduation Speech

The protest occurred against the backdrop of controversy surrounding the cancellation of a pro-Palestinian valedictorian’s speech at USC’s commencement ceremony. Asna Tabassum, a biomedical engineering major, faced criticism for her social media posts on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, prompting the university to exclude her from speaking.

Tabassum’s exclusion sparked student protests, with many citing concerns over free speech. However, USC Provost Andrew Guzman clarified that the decision aimed to uphold campus safety protocols rather than restrict free expression.

Campus Activism and Dialogue

The pro-Palestinian protest at USC underscores the intersection of activism, campus dynamics, and geopolitical tensions. As universities navigate complex issues, ensuring dialogue and respect for diverse perspectives remain crucial. The incident highlights the importance of constructive engagement and efforts to foster inclusive communities on college campuses.

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