Stanford University Faces Protests Over Ban on Overnight Sit-In Camping
Alenteshar Newspaper
Students at Stanford University have launched protests against a new university policy that bans overnight sit-in camping, a measure that has sparked controversy amidst ongoing pro-Palestinian demonstrations. The ban comes in response to a sit-in by pro-Palestinian students protesting Israel’s war on Gaza, which has extended over 112 days. The university’s decision was announced on Thursday night, leading to immediate calls from the protesters for support against the measure.
The university cited safety concerns for the community as the primary reason for the ban, referencing incidents of strong winds from a recent storm that resulted in the collapse of tents. Following the storm, disputes arose as students began using chairs to occupy space in White Plaza, infringing on areas used by other groups.
Stanford has maintained a policy prohibiting overnight camping unless specifically authorized. However, it had allowed overnight camping in White Plaza since October 7 to support students’ peaceful expression of free speech. The recent statement from Stanford highlighted that the level of concern for community safety has escalated to a point where the university feels it cannot support overnight activities any longer. As a result, all items must be removed from the area between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m., with unattended items being subject to removal.
Students found violating the new ban face disciplinary actions and could be cited for trespassing if they fail to comply with the university’s directives. Despite this, Stanford’s announcement reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the peaceful expression of diverse views within its community, particularly regarding the Israel’s war on Gaza.
An emergency rally was organized by students to protest the university’s ban, with a social media post calling for “all hands on deck” to support the sit-in. The post urged participants to wear Stanford gear as a sign of unity. The controversy was further fueled by claims that the ban was a response to complaints from “Zionists on campus” after their counterprotest setup was disrupted during the storm.
This development at Stanford follows broader scrutiny faced by the university and others regarding their handling of student protests in the wake of the October 7 attacks. Reports had previously surfaced of a non-faculty instructor singling out students based on their backgrounds and identities during discussions on the Middle East conflict, adding to the tension and debates over free speech and safety on campus.
This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate
