UCLA Suspends Two Pro-Palestinian Student Groups after Protest at UC Regent’s Home
Incident Details
On February 5, a group of protesters rallied in front of the Brentwood home of UC Regent Jay Sures, a well-known Hollywood agent. The demonstration allegedly turned violent, with protesters putting red-colored handprints on the outer walls of Sures’ home and holding up a sign with the message "Jonathan Sures you will pay until you see your final day." Additionally, protesters surrounded the vehicle of a Sures family member, preventing their "free movement," according to the university.
University Response
UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk announced that the university has issued an interim suspension to two registered student organizations, Students for Justice in Palestine and Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine, based on its review of the initial reports about the groups’ involvement in the incident. Frenk emphasized that there is no place for violence in the Bruin community.
Allegations and Rebuttals
In a social media post, the now-banned Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine claimed that they targeted Sures because of his close ties to the Anti-Defamation League and alleged that he was behind a new UC policy that singles out their position on the war in Gaza. However, the university has clarified that the policy in question, approved in July 2024, bans political statements from the homepages of individual schools, not individuals.
Investigation and Disciplinary Action
The university is conducting an investigation into the incident, and students involved could face disciplinary action. Chancellor Frenk emphasized that any act of violence undermines the foundation of the university and that UCLA will not turn a blind eye to such incidents.
Conclusion
The suspension of the two pro-Palestinian student groups serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the values of peace, respect, and non-violence in the university community. While the right to express opinions and advocate for a cause is essential, it must be done in a peaceful and respectful manner that does not harm others.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What were the allegations against the two suspended student groups?
A: The allegations included vandalism and physical obstruction, including putting red-colored handprints on the outer walls of Regent Sures’ home and surrounding the vehicle of a Sures family member.
Q: What was the university’s response to the incident?
A: The university issued an interim suspension to the two student organizations and launched an investigation into the incident, which could result in disciplinary action against students involved.
Q: What is the purpose of the new UC policy on political statements?
A: The policy aims to prevent the use of university resources to promote harmful or discriminatory speech, while also allowing for the free exchange of ideas and opinions within the university community.
