UCLA Suspends Pro-Palestinian Groups Following Allegations of Vandalism and Harassment
Administrative Review Underway
Los Angeles – Two officially recognized pro-Palestinian student organizations at UCLA, Students for Justice in Palestine and Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine, have been suspended and are under administrative review following allegations of vandalism at the residence of a UC regent and reports of harassment.
Incident Details
On a Wednesday, members of the two groups protested, vandalized property, and harassed UC Regent Jay Sures, his family, and neighbors at his Brentwood home. The protest allegedly involved intimidation, obstruction of a family member’s vehicle, menacing signs, and defacing Sures’ residence with red handprints and banners.
Chancellor’s Statement
UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk condemned the actions, stating, "No one should ever fear for their safety. Without the basic feeling of safety, humans cannot learn, teach, work, and live – much less thrive and flourish. This is true no matter what group you are a member of – or which identities you hold. There is no place for violence in our Bruin community."
Faculty Statement
Faculty for Justice in Palestine at UCLA called the suspensions "dangerous and duplicitous," stating that the student organizations are speaking out on behalf of the tens of thousands killed in Gaza since October 7, 2023, and demanding that the UC divest from investments that fund the conflict.
Wade Stern’s Statement
Wade Stern, president of the Federated University Peace Officers Association, praised the suspensions, saying, "These actions were not peaceful protests; they were targeted intimidation. For more than a year, some members of these groups have violated UCLA’s rules of conduct with impunity. Yet, until now, the university has refused to impose meaningful consequences."
Conclusion
The suspension of the two pro-Palestinian groups is a necessary step towards maintaining a safe and respectful environment on campus. The incident highlights the importance of upholding the values of free speech and nonviolent protest, while also addressing the concerns of all parties involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What were the allegations against the two pro-Palestinian student organizations?
- The allegations included vandalism, harassment, intimidation, and obstruction of a family member’s vehicle.
- Why were the organizations suspended?
- The suspension was based on the allegations and the need to maintain a safe and respectful environment on campus.
- What is the current status of the two organizations?
- The organizations are under administrative review, and their suspension will continue until the investigation is complete.
- What is the stance of the university on the matter?
- The university condemns the actions and is committed to upholding the values of free speech and nonviolent protest while maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
