Justice For CUNY 8: Press Conference

Event Overview A protest titled “Pack the Court” is scheduled for Wednesday, February 14th, at 8:30 AM at Columbus Park, New York. The demonstration aims to support the “CUNY 8”—eight student protesters facing potential felony charges for allegedly attempting to occupy an on-campus building on April 24. These students previously pleaded not guilty to burglary felony charges in September 2024. Given the nature of the protest and its ties to contentious campus activism, the event may involve heightened tensions, inflammatory rhetoric, and possible confrontations with law enforcement or counter-protesters.

Organizations’ Background The protest is endorsed by Fatima Mohammed, known for her involvement with CUNY, Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), and Within Our Lifetime (WOL). These groups and individuals have a history of organizing demonstrations that often promote extreme rhetoric and divisive narratives. Previous events led by these organizations have been marked by aggressive tactics and disregard for campus and community safety, raising concerns about potential disruptions and security risks.

Safety Advisory Community members and those near Columbus Park are urged to take the following precautions due to potential disruptions:

🔴 Avoid the Area: Expect heavy foot traffic and possible confrontations. Consider using alternate routes to navigate around Columbus Park. 🔴 Expect Crowds: Increased police presence and possible counter-protests could escalate tensions. 🔴 Stay Vigilant: Avoid direct engagement with protest participants to minimize risks. 🔴 Monitor Updates: Follow local safety alerts and news sources for real-time information on the situation.