NEW YORK, USA: In the wake of relentless Israeli attacks in Gaza, pro-Palestinian demonstrations disrupted convocation ceremonies at several major U.S. universities, sparking concerns among college administrators as graduation season commences.
At Northeastern University and Ohio State University, dozens of protesters were arrested in recent days, reflecting the escalating tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The convocation ceremonies have become a focal point for pro-Palestinian students to voice their grievances and renew calls for their universities to divest from Israel. Demonstrators draped in flags and graduation caps disrupted events at the University of Michigan and Indiana University, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the Gaza crisis.
College administrators are implementing security measures to minimize disruptions, including setting up designated protest areas and enhancing existing security protocols.
In response to the protests, police removed a pro-Palestinian encampment from the University of Southern California’s campus, while Kent State University witnessed gatherings reminiscent of historical student protests against the Vietnam War.
Despite clashes and arrests at institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and the University of Virginia, some universities have reached agreements with pro-Palestinian protesters. Vassar College, Brown University, and Northwestern University have agreed to review divestment proposals, signaling a willingness to engage with student demands.
In a significant development, Evergreen State College in Washington became the first U.S. university to divest completely from Israel following widespread rallies in solidarity with Palestinians. The move, praised by the father of slain activist Rachel Corrie, reflects growing momentum in support of the Palestinian cause.
The agreement at Evergreen State College, which includes a commitment to publicly call for a ceasefire in Gaza and refrain from approving study abroad programs to Israel, underscores the impact of student activism in shaping institutional policies.
While challenges persist in addressing human rights concerns and fostering diversity, the agreements reached at various universities highlight the potential for dialogue and meaningful change in response to global conflicts.
