State representatives visit UIUC pro-Palestine encampment on day six

URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — As the pro-Palestine encampment continues into its 6th day on Friday, demonstrators got a visit from two state representatives.

Encampment organizers announced in their Telegram group that State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid was visiting the encampment for a press conference at 1:30 p.m. to extend his support.

Rashid is the first Palestinian-American in the House. He said coming down is his way of saying thank you.

“I can speak personally that when I saw the students put themselves at risk to fight the genocide I was incredibly moved,” Rashid said. “And it redoubled my commitment and rejuvenated my energy to fight against the genocide.”

Around 2:15 p.m., the group also announced Rep. Carol Ammons was visiting the encampment.

“I’m calling on all people of good will to come and support the students at our university, even though we know that people don’t want you to be here,” Ammons said, speaking to the encampment crowd. “But you are here for future generations and for all of those who’ve died unnecessarily.”

Ammons related the pro-Palestine protest to other civil rights demonstrations of the past, saying it could be one of the most important humanitarian issues.

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