DMV-area Students Protest Israel-Hamas Conflict at George Washington University Campus
Students in the DMV-area took a stand on Thursday, as they gathered on the campus of George Washington University to protest against the Israel-Hamas conflict. The protest, named “Students All Out For Gaza,” saw students from various universities including American University, Gallaudet University, George Mason University, Georgetown, and Howard coming together to voice their concerns.
The protesters set up tents in University Yard, displaying signs, chanting, drumming, and waving Palestinian flags. Their demands include urging universities to divest from businesses supporting Israel in the ongoing conflict, protecting speech in support of Palestine on campus, and dropping charges against pro-Palestinian student organizers.
Despite George Washington University’s statement that University Yard was not meant for gatherings due to finals, the students continued their protest. The university requested the demonstrators to move to Anniversary Park and mandated the removal of tents and dispersal by 7 p.m. Thursday.
However, the students persisted well into the night, with GWU releasing a statement expressing concern over the unauthorized use of university space. As the sun rose on Friday morning, protesters were still present, drumming and chanting, with DC Police officers nearby.
The protest at George Washington University is just one of many that have taken place on college campuses across the country in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict. The students remain steadfast in their support for Gaza, calling for action and solidarity in the face of the ongoing crisis.