Tensions flared at UCLA on Tuesday afternoon as students rallied against the university’s decision to suspend two pro-Palestinian student organizations. The protest, which drew about 100 people, was in response to UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk’s announcement that Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) and Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine (GSJP) would be temporarily suspended pending an administrative review.
Allegations of Harassment and Vandalism
Frenk cited an incident in which protesters allegedly harassed UC Regent Jay Sures, a vocal supporter of Israel, and his family outside their home. The demonstration reportedly involved surrounding a vehicle to prevent a family member from leaving and leaving red-colored handprints on the property. The university has launched an investigation into whether these actions violated UCLA’s student conduct code.
“The Office of Student Conduct is undertaking the standard process for addressing potential violations,” Frenk stated in a message to the campus. “This suspension will remain in effect during the review, and if these reports prove true, disciplinary action may be taken.”
Student Groups Reject Accusations
SJP and GSJP have pushed back against the university’s claims, arguing that the suspension is an attempt to silence student activism. In a statement posted on Instagram, the groups denied any violent actions and criticized UCLA for what they described as an unfair crackdown.
“We reject Frenk’s accusations that student protesters have committed violence against the UCLA community,” their statement read.
A Campus Divided
Tuesday’s demonstration began at Royce Hall before moving across campus, with students calling for the reinstatement of the suspended groups. The event is part of a larger pattern of unrest at UCLA, which has been a flashpoint for pro-Palestinian activism and counterprotests over the past year.
In a high-profile incident last year, a pro-Palestinian encampment on campus was attacked by counterprotesters. The university faced backlash for its slow response to the violence, and later, dozens of students were arrested when authorities cleared the encampment.
What’s Next?
With the university’s review ongoing, it remains to be seen whether the suspensions will be upheld or if the student groups will be reinstated. In the meantime, UCLA’s campus remains a battleground for heated political discourse, reflecting broader national divisions over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As protests continue, all eyes are on the university’s next steps and how it will navigate this contentious issue while maintaining campus safety and upholding free speech.