Emerson College’s Boylston Place alley encampment, established in protest of the Gaza conflict, has drawn the attention of local authorities. According to an email obtained by the Globe and sent to students on Wednesday morning, Boston’s police and fire departments have cautioned Emerson administrators that “imminent law enforcement action” may occur at the site.
Students have formed a human barricade to guard both ends of the alley, allowing authorized individuals to pass through. Protest organizers emphasize that they are prepared for any potential police intervention.
The email from Emerson administrators cites a city ordinance that prohibits unlawful camping and the establishment of tents and tarps on public property. The Boston Police Department (BPD) and Boston Fire Department (BFD) have notified Emerson that the encampment violates these ordinances.
Protest organizers plan to stage a walkout today, expecting a large turnout to support their cause. They believe that a greater number of participants will decrease the risk of arrests.
Emerson’s email also addresses reports of harassment and intimidation experienced by Jewish supporters of Israel and passersby in the alley, labeling such behavior as unacceptable.
The college has deployed additional security personnel from the Windwalker Group to provide assistance and a constant security presence in the area.
The encampment has been in place since Sunday evening, featuring green tents, pro-Palestinian signage, and chalk messages on surrounding walls. Protesters have engaged in nightly camping, chanting, singing, lectures, discussions, and protest training sessions. Their demands include a cease-fire in Gaza and the college’s divestment from any financial connections to Israel.
Last month, 12 Emerson students were arrested during a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside President Jay Bernhardt’s inauguration. Some students expressed reluctance to face arrest again, while others indicated they would not hesitate to stand their ground.
Madeline Khaw can be reached at maddie.khaw@globe.com. Follow her @maddiekhaw.
