The University of California issued a statement condemning the recent unrest on its campus, which included anti-Israel agitators taking over two academic buildings, resulting in illegal activities that could cost “millions.” The university stressed that the rebellion had nothing to do with free speech or freedom of inquiry, but rather was lawless behavior that has interrupted the education of the majority of students, damaged the school’s reputation, and drained resources from its educational purpose. The true cost of the damage includes theft, vandalism, and graffiti, as well as the loss of revenue from disruption to university operations.
The university clarified that its issue was not with the protest itself, but with the ongoing unlawful occupation of campus buildings by students and non-students engaging in criminal acts such as vandalism, theft, destruction of state property, and intimidation of university employees. These actions have created safety hazards by blocking exits to the buildings. Students who took over Siemens Hall, one of the buildings branded “Intifada Hall,” were repeatedly asked to relocate their demonstration outside but refused, resulting in a confrontation when police attempted to enforce the order to disperse. Police withdrew for the safety of those inside the building and law enforcement officers.
The university emphasized that its goal has always been to bring a peaceful end to the occupation, continuing to engage in productive and respectful dialogue with anyone willing. Despite the history of activism and civic engagement on campus, the closure of the campus for the remainder of the semester was announced as anti-Israel protesters continued their occupation. Students living on campus would be allowed to remain in their residence halls and dining facilities, but not in other parts of the campus without permission.
On Sunday, the university urged those occupying the academic buildings or illegally camping around the facilities to peacefully leave the campus as soon as possible. Voluntary departure would be taken into account as a possible mitigating factor in the university’s conduct processes and could reduce the severity of sanctions imposed. However, responsibility for potential conduct or criminal charges would not be eliminated. The closure of the campus and the enforcement of a hard closure were measures taken to ensure the safety of all individuals and prevent further disruption to university operations.
