Demonstrations in support of Palestine continue to escalate on university campuses across the United States, with the movement now spreading to schools in Europe and Australia. In the wake of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, where thousands of Palestinians have lost their lives, students are urging universities to divest from Israel.
Protests have led to the cancellation of graduation ceremonies at some institutions, while others have seen student-led occupations of entire buildings. Among those joining the movement is The City University of New York (CUNY), where hundreds of students have established an encampment with banners denouncing investment in apartheid.
“Young people are stepping up to demand accountability from universities regarding their ties to Israeli colonization,” said Aossey. Despite efforts by university leaders to suppress the demonstrations, including violent police intervention resulting in numerous arrests, the protests show no signs of waning.
Global solidarity with Palestine is evident as demonstrations have also emerged outside the US. In Berlin, activists demand an end to arms exports to Israel, while in Paris, students blockaded a university building to draw attention to the Palestinian cause. Similar rallies in Sweden, London, and other cities emphasize the call for justice and the end of complicity in Israel’s actions.
Critics labeling the protests as anti-Semitic are countered by organizers, emphasizing that the demonstrations are rooted in legitimate criticism of the Israeli government’s policies. Such displays of solidarity are crucial, particularly during a year marked by concerns of voter apathy, as the conflict in Gaza continues to spark debate and activism on college campuses across the United States.