NEW YORK (AP) — Months before they pitched their tents on Columbia University’s main lawn, inspiring a wave of protest encampments at college campuses nationwide, a small group of pro-Palestinian student activists met privately to sketch out the logistical details of a round-the-clock occupation.
In hours of planning sessions, they discussed communications strategies and their willingness to risk arrest, along with the more prosaic questions of bathroom access and trash removal. Then, after scouring online retailers and Craigslist for the most affordable options, they ordered the tents.
“There’s been a lot of work, a lot of meetings that went into it, and when we finally pulled it off, we had no idea how it would go,” said Columbia graduate student Elea Sun. “I don’t think anyone imagined it would take off like it did.”
Inspired by the protests at Columbia, hundreds of students have set up protest encampments on at least a dozen other college campuses across the country to protest lsrael’s actions in the war with Hamas. Among other demands, they are calling for their schools to cut financial ties with Israel and the companies supporting the conflict. The protests come as universities are winding up the spring semester and preparing for graduation ceremonies.
'Constantly learning' Imanaga off to impressive start with the Chicago Cubs
China sanctions Boeing, two U.S. defense contractors for Taiwan arms sales
Galatasaray must wait to seal Turkish league title after home loss to fierce rival Fenerbahce
Miranda Lambert, 40, looks loved
US overdose deaths dropped in 2023, the first time since 2018
Stars shining at San Siro as Inter celebrates 20th Serie A title
Galatasaray must wait to seal Turkish league title after home loss to fierce rival Fenerbahce
U.S. move of tariff hikes sets bad example for free trade
Ben Whishaw lights up the Croisette as he joins his co
Trump hush money trial: Michael Cohen returns for more questioning
'Constantly learning' Imanaga off to impressive start with the Chicago Cubs
China is source of growth and innovation: says Danone CEO