Violent Clashes Erupt as Pro-Palestine Protesters Occupy Cal Poly Humboldt Building
Arcata, CA (April 23, 2024) – Tensions boiled over into violence today as pro-Palestine student activists clashed with police while occupying Siemens Hall at Cal Poly Humboldt.
The protesters, demanding the university divest from companies supplying Israel’s military, barricaded themselves inside the building in the early morning hours.
University police, bolstered by officers from the Arcata Police Department and Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, moved in to clear the building.
“People have a right to protest, but it has to be done safely and lawfully,” said Arcata Mayor Sofia Pereira. “Our focus is on restoring order and ensuring everyone’s safety.”
Protesters Alleged Excessive Force
However, protesters claim police utilized excessive and unwarranted force to remove them.
“We were engaged in peaceful civil disobedience when police charged in and attacked us without warning,” said student organizer Laila Masri. “They pepper sprayed us, dragged people by their hair, and threw some down stairs. Over 50 people were injured.”
Organizers say more than 200 students and community members participated in the occupation, which aimed to pressure Cal Poly Humboldt’s administration to cut ties with weapons manufacturers like Lockheed Martin and Raytheon.
“Our tuition money shouldn’t fund the Israeli military’s human rights abuses against Palestinians,” Masri said. “We’ll continue protesting until the university divests.”
Administration Defends Police Actions
University officials defended the police response, stating that officers issued multiple dispersal orders before moving to clear the building. “While we respect the right to protest, the occupation of Siemens Hall presented serious safety risks and disrupted university operations,” said Cal Poly Humboldt President Tom Jackson, Jr. “Police used reasonable and necessary force to remove the protesters.”
According to the university, 38 protesters were arrested for trespassing. Two police officers sustained minor injuries after being shoved by protesters.
The university is reviewing the incident to determine if proper protocols were followed.
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Ongoing Controversy
The protests are part of a growing “Boycott, Divest, Sanction” movement on U.S. college campuses, aimed at pressuring Israel over its treatment of Palestinians. Critics argue the movement unfairly singles out Israel and promotes antisemitism. Supporters say it’s a nonviolent way to support Palestinian human rights.
Today’s clash at Cal Poly Humboldt is likely to further inflame the controversy, with both sides digging in.
“This is about standing up for justice and equality,” said Masri. “We won’t be intimidated into silence.” But university officials insist they must maintain safety and order. With tensions running high, it remains to be seen how the situation will be resolved.
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