Campus Police Confront Pro-Gaza Demonstrators at UCLA
Campus police faced off with pro-Gaza demonstrators at UCLA on Tuesday afternoon, the latest instance of fiery tensions between protesters and the law enforcement body that polices the university.
Orderly but Tense Demonstration
The Tuesday demonstration, which had proven to be orderly and peaceful as of 3 p.m., was organized by Students for Justice in Palestine, which has orchestrated similar protests in recent months that were eventually disrupted by police.
Divestment Demand
The student organization has called for UCLA to divest from the Israeli government and corporations that do business with it, something the University of California system has said it does not intend to do.
Confrontation Erupts
Video from Sky5, as well as photos posted to social media by campus news groups, showed dozens of protesters circling Bruin Plaza with campus police clad in riot gear and wielding batons nearby.
UCLA Police Response
The UCLA Police Department posted on social media that officers were “working to resolve” issues regarding upwards of 100 people block walkways at Bruin Plaza.
Controversial Policy
UCLA has a controversial “Time, Place and Manner” policy regarding when and where students are allowed to exercise their First Amendment rights.
Previous Incident
In October, one person was arrested after police broke up an “unauthorized” demonstration that coincided with a Jewish holiday and a speaking arrangement with rightwing pundit Ben Shapiro.
No Reports of Arrests
At this time, there have been no reports of arrests.
Conclusion
The ongoing tensions between protesters and campus police at UCLA highlight the need for a clear and consistent approach to upholding students’ First Amendment rights. The university’s controversial policy has sparked debate and criticism, and it remains to be seen how future demonstrations will be handled.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the demonstration?
A: The demonstration is organized by Students for Justice in Palestine to call for UCLA to divest from the Israeli government and corporations that do business with it.
Q: What is the university’s stance on the issue?
A: The University of California system has said it does not intend to divest from Israel.
Q: Have there been any previous incidents involving campus police and protesters?
A: Yes, in October, one person was arrested after police broke up an “unauthorized” demonstration that coincided with a Jewish holiday and a speaking arrangement with rightwing pundit Ben Shapiro.
Q: Are there any plans to change the university’s policy on First Amendment rights?
A: It is unclear at this time whether there are any plans to review or revise the university’s policy on First Amendment rights.
