Harvard University has become the newest addition to a growing list of US colleges that have experienced the establishment of pro-Palestinian encampments on their grounds. These encampments have emerged in the wake of widespread protests denouncing Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Harvard’s encampment was established on Wednesday following the university’s decision to restrict access to the yard for non-affiliated individuals. The university had erected signage at the entrance to the yard, prohibiting structures, including tents and tables, without prior authorization and barring the blocking of pedestrian pathways or building entrances. However, protesters disregarded these restrictions and proceeded to set up the camp, chanting slogans in support of Palestinian liberation.
This development at Harvard follows similar occurrences at other prestigious institutions like Columbia, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and New York University, where pro-Palestinian encampments have been established for several days. Princeton University students have also expressed their solidarity with these demonstrations, releasing a statement indicating their belief that the school would not suspend them for participating.
The protests and encampments have generated controversy and condemnation from lawmakers representing both parties. Some have even demanded the resignation of university leaders, including Columbia President Minouche Shafik. Amid the unrest and safety concerns, Columbia has introduced hybrid classes while engaging in negotiations with students to dismantle the encampment without resorting to police intervention. Former Harvard President Claudine Gay resigned in January amidst allegations of plagiarism and controversy over her handling of antisemitism on campus.
