Northwestern students set up encampment on Evanston campus in support of Palestine

EVANSTON, Ill. - A student-led protest in support of Palestine on Northwestern University’s campus grew throughout the day, with at least 1,000 people gathering in Deering Meadow by Thursday night.

Beginning at 7 a.m., students, staff, and community members set up an encampment on the Evanston campus to protest the Israel-Hamas war.

In response, Northwestern University enacted an interim addendum to its Student Code of Conduct that stated any installation of tents or other temporary structures on school property is prohibited, unless sanctioned by the university.
As a result, campus police responded Thursday morning and asked demonstrators to remove their tents.

"Others refused and were cited by Northwestern Police. Their tents were removed by the University," according to a statement from Northwestern University President Michael Schill.

By Thursday afternoon, however, more tents had been erected and tables with food and water were set up in Deering Meadow. Throughout the evening, protestors with sleeping bags were arriving by the dozen.

Dubbed a ‘liberated zone’ on Northwestern’s campus, the demonstration was organized by Educators for Justice in Palestine, Jewish Voice for Peace and the Student Liberation Union, citing student and alumni opposition to what they say are partnerships that legitimize genocide and occupation in Palestine.

"It’s just so sad, because men, women and children – unarmed – are being killed every second of the day," said Maysoun Abudayyeh, who is in support of the demonstration.

Those participating in the sit-in said they want the university to meet several demands, including to protect student civil liberties.

"The second is to pressure administration to disclose divestments and to divest from not only the Israeli apartheid regime, but all war in general," said one organizer.

The groups issued a statement Thursday morning, condemning the university:

"Northwestern students report the administration is curtailing free speech. The school is intimidating both students and educators who speak out against Israeli apartheid and occupation. The student liberation encampment will create a safe space for those who want to show their support of the Palestinian people."

Northwestern President Michael Schill released a statement on the demonstration, writing in part:

"Earlier this morning, a group of demonstrators attempted to set up a tent encampment on Deering Meadow and were informed that doing so is prohibited under University policies. After discussions with University officials, some demonstrators removed their tents. Others refused and were cited by Northwestern Police. Their tents were removed by the University.

Freedom of expression and enlightened debate are among our institution’s guiding principles and priorities. At the same time, the University prioritizes the safety and well-being of all community members as well as the importance of not disrupting classes and our educational mission."

In his statement, Schill added that they have seen recent protests in Evanston that "have interfered with classes in nearby buildings, as well as chalkings, flyers, banners and chants that many have found hateful, intimidating, offensive and difficult to avoid."

"They’re just calling for a violent overthrow of Israeli state," said Kirill Magidson, Northwestern graduate student.

One organizer had this to say: "We are very against antisemitism as much as we are against islamophobia."

Still, the executive director of Northwestern Hillel says there is rhetoric he finds concerning and antisemitic.

"Another one that we found particularly problematic, is some of the chanting has said ‘all resistance in justified,’ and we interpret, I would interpret that to consider the horrific Hamas attack on October 7th as resistance," said Michael Simon, executive director, Northwestern Hillel. "On some other campuses, it’s become a more intense atmosphere, and so I think our concern is wanting to make sure it doesn’t escalate here."

Northwestern Hillel, which fosters Jewish community on campus, issued a statement Thursday, writing in part:

"Earlier this morning, a group of demonstrators set up an encampment on Deering Meadow, reflecting a disturbing and quickly escalating trend of antisemitic rhetoric and actions both nationally and on our own campus.

"As always, Northwestern Hillel is here for our Jewish students.

"We believe that Northwestern should be a place to live, learn, explore, and connect in an environment free of threats, harassment, and intimidation. We will continue our celebration of Passover, the Festival of Freedom, with meals, programs, and prayers. As always, all are welcome."

Similar campus protests have taken place across the country this week, most prominently at Columbia University, the University of Southern California, and Emory University.