(PatriotSpotlight.org) – On Wednesday, violence broke out at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) after counter-protesters appeared to encroach on an anti-Israel encampment, causing a slew of people to suffer various injuries. Gavin Newsom, Governor of the city of Los Angeles, slammed the demonstrations, stating the freedom of expression was not a license to commit violence or vandalism of property. In the wake of the incident, state police were sent to the university to restore peace.
The chaos at UCLA, which saw fireworks launched into the encampment and pro-Palestinian activists beaten with sticks, has intensified the debate over campus safety and free speech. Mayor Karen Bass called for an investigation into the violence, and UC system President Michael V. Drake ordered an external review. At least 15 people were injured, further fueling public concern over campus safety.
Democratic officials criticized the slow response from campus law enforcement, with Newsom’s spokesperson describing it as “unacceptable.” The outbreak of violence also prompted the California Federation of Teachers (CFT), a union which represents both teachers and other campus employees, to urge UCLA Chancellor Gene Block to step down over his response to the protestors.
Republican governors are calling for a more stringent response and heavier penalties for demonstrators. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has already sent the Department of Public Safety to the University of Texas at Austin, pushing for arrests and expulsion of students linked to the demonstrations, which he criticized as “antisemitic.” Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb has made similar statements and said that students who refuse to “play by the rules” will be penalized. Jewish students have reported receiving antisemitic abuse by protestors present at the encampments.
As unrest escalates on college campuses some academic events have been interrupted with several universities going so far as to cancel graduation ceremonies and switch to online classes to ensure student and faculty safety. Colleges such as the University of Michigan and the University of California system, have thus far rejected campaigns that they sever all ties with Israel, despite climbing pressure from anti-Israel activists, the pressures brought on by such highly publicized protests is obvious.
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