Wesleyan University students maintain protest encampment on campus

MIDDLETOWN, Conn. (WTNH) — Students at Wesleyan University are continuing their demonstration in support of Gaza with an encampment situated at the heart of the campus, behind North College, since Sunday.

Tents lining the walkway and written messages articulate their solidarity with Gaza and their grievances against the ongoing violence.

“We’re here for Gaza,” said Rowan Roudebush, Wesleyan Freshman and member of Wesleyan Students for Justice in Palestine. “We’re here because we keep witnessing horrifying images of people being murdered in hospital gowns with their hands tied behind their back. We continue to uncover mass graves in Rafah.”

Wesleyan Senior Uday Narayanan, also part of Wesleyan Students for Justice in Palestine, echoed this sentiment.

“The situation in Gaza is so dire and the fact that our university is doing nothing is incredibly frustrating,” said Narayanan.

Wesleyan President Michael S. Roth acknowledged in a statement that the protest has been non-violent. “As long as it continues in this way, the University will not attempt to clear the encampment,” said Roth.

“Obviously we’re grateful to not be facing police brutality like other encampments, but we don’t think we should be celebrating our president for not calling police to beat up the students,” said Roudebush.

Roth added he has also heard from students who have felt bullied or have been … “offended by attacks on their identities, or who object to the protesters’ taking over what is supposed to be public space.”

He said those who have defaced university property will face consequences. “To be clear, this may include suspension, expulsion, and legal charges.”

Despite facing potential consequences, the protestors are committed to maintaining the encampment until their demands for divestment are met.

“We want to know where our tuition dollars are going, and the fact that the university is being so opaque is incredibly concerning,” said Narayanan.

The protestors are hoping their voices and actions along with others around the world will lead to change at home and in Gaza.

“I think our power is undeniable,” said Roudebush.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.