In response to the arrests, students at UT walked out of class on Wednesday morning and gathered at Gregory Gym. They planned to march and occupy the university’s South Mall in an act of solidarity with Palestinians.
The Palestine Solidarity Committee at UT said it is following in the footsteps of students at other schools who are calling for justice in Palestine. The group planned to occupy the South Mall all day Wednesday.
However, UT has stated that the protest is not authorized. In a letter sent to the Palestine Solidarity Committee on Wednesday, the Office of the Dean of Students said the event “may not proceed as planned.”
The letter warned that any attempt to hold the event on campus would subject the organization and its attendees to discipline, including suspension. The letter also noted that attendees not affiliated with UT would be directed to leave campus, and refusal to comply may result in arrests.
UT’s Division of Student Affairs echoed those sentiments in a statement, saying that the university does not tolerate disruptions of campus activities or operations. The statement said that the university’s priority is to allow students to finish classes and study for finals without interruption.
KVUE crews on the scene reported an increased police presence in response to the protest. The university has urged students to remain peaceful and respectful of others.
