After nearly two weeks, the pro-Palestinian encampment at Case Western Reserve University has disbanded.
Student protesters began their demonstration on April 29. But, as of Friday morning, the grassy oval in front of Kelvin Smith Library where the encampment took shape shows few signs of the protest that rocked the university’s campus as the spring semester wound down.
Plus, there was no activity on the steps of Adelbert Hall. Several students had been camping out at one of the university’s most historic buildings. It’s home to several administrative offices – including President Eric Kaler’s.
In a statement, student leaders said they made this decision after feeling threatened by Kaler and others.
“We are determined to continue our advocacy through all available means,” a spokesperson for the students said via email Friday. “Our commitment to justice and peace is stronger than ever, and we believe in the power of sustained, peaceful protest to effect meaningful change.”
Kaler also issued a statement on Friday. He said protestors leaving on their own was “a good outcome.”
But he also reiterated his earlier comments that “any student, faculty or staff member who is found to have violated the university’s policies will be held accountable through the relevant conduct processes.” He went on to say those procedures have already begun.
“Legal action also may be pursued, including for those unaffiliated with the university who trespassed on university property and continually broke the safety guidelines and rules we set for this protest to protect our community,” he added.
Encampment comes down just days before graduation
Tensions ran high between the administration and students over the past few weeks. Student protestors said that although authorities briefly detained more than 20 people on the encampment’s first day, they made no arrests.
This development comes just days before the university’s graduation events begin. A full slate of activities kicks off on Wednesday.
Graduation seemed to be the catalyst for the encampment coming down Friday. Kaler said the events “cannot be tarnished for our graduates and their guests.”
“Repeatedly this week, protesters have threatened to disrupt commencement events—one of the most cherished traditions on our campus for students, faculty, staff and families,” Kaler wrote in Friday’s email.
Now, the vice president of student affairs must approve any activity “related to freedom of expression, regardless of perspective or subject” happening on the private university’s campus. That directive runs through May 20, according to Friday’s note.
Case Western Reserve was one of nearly 80 U.S. colleges with an encampment to protest the war in Gaza and show support for Palestine.
Students at the university wanted, among other demands, the administration to divest any financial interests in Israel and restore the rights of the campus chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine. Case Western Reserve officials suspended the SJP chapter earlier this year for posting flyers in restricted areas.
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