The 10-campus University of California (UC) system has announced new policies prohibiting encampments and face coverings used to conceal identity, as reported by The Guardian. This move comes in anticipation of potential pro-Palestinian protests similar to those that swept across US campuses earlier this year.
In a Monday announcement, UC President Michael Drake stated that these steps are being taken to "ensure a safe, inclusive campus climate that fosters a free exchange of ideas." Drake emphasized the importance of lawful protests, noting that some activities witnessed in the past year were not peaceful or nonviolent.
The 10-campus UC system experienced various demonstrations during the previous academic year, ranging from San Diego to Santa Cruz. At UCLA, protesters were reportedly attacked by masked individuals while law enforcement and campus security observed.
The university system faced criticism from multiple fronts, including those who argued it was allowing an unsafe environment for Jewish students and others who were frustrated by the treatment of protesters.
Drake's announcement clarified policies prohibiting unauthorized structures and the refusal to reveal one's identity to university personnel. He directed university leaders to enforce these rules strictly and consistently.
NEW: University of California President Michael Drake has directed the chancellors of all UC campuses to establish, publicize, and enforce rules against encampments, restricting the movement of others, and masking to hide one's identity: pic.twitter.com/cQphJjQRy1
— Steve McGuire (@sfmcguire79) August 19, 2024
As the fall semester begins, student organizers are also preparing. At UCLA, the Palestine Solidarity Coalition spent the summer conducting workshops called the People's University for a Liberated Palestine. Marie Salem, a PhD student and media liaison for the coalition, said, "Students are also getting organized to spread education about divestment."
However, student efforts may be hindered by ongoing legal and academic disciplinary charges against over 200 students arrested during the clearance of UCLA's encampment in May. Most face misdemeanor charges, with the Los Angeles City Attorney's office receiving five referrals. At least 55 students also received letters from the university threatening to place holds on their academic records or withhold degrees.
Agnes, a recent UCLA graduate and member of Jewish Voice for Peace, expressed concern about these actions, stating to The Guardian, "These legal efforts of repression of specifically our movement set really dangerous precedents for the future."
Faculty members have also been involved with UCLA's Faculty for Justice in Palestine, supporting students with legal aid and monitoring university policies on encampments and policing. They filed an amicus brief opposing a lawsuit by three Jewish UCLA students that could limit campus protests.
On August 14, a US district judge ruled that UCLA cannot allow pro-Palestinian protesters to block Jewish students from accessing campus facilities. The university has appealed this ruling, arguing that protesters, not the university, were responsible for any blockages.
