California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, issued a stern rebuke Sunday following days of campus unrest that saw anti-Israel activists occupy two academic buildings, warning that the financial toll of these illegal actions could reach “millions.”
In a strongly worded statement, the university condemned the “lawless behavior” of the agitators, asserting that the ongoing rebellion “has nothing to do with free speech or freedom of inquiry.”
“It is lawless behavior that has harmed the vast majority of our students whose education has been interrupted, damaged the reputation of our school, and drained resources from the accomplishment of our core educational purpose,” the university said.
The statement detailed the costs associated with the takeover, citing damages from theft, vandalism, graffiti, and the necessary supplies and personnel to repair facilities, along with the revenue loss from disrupted university operations. However, the true cost, the university emphasized, is the disruption to students’ education.
The university clarified that its issue was not with the protest itself but with the “unlawful occupation of campus buildings by students and non-students” and associated “criminal acts,” including vandalism, theft, destruction of state property, and intimidation of university employees.
“These actions have created safety hazards for those who have barricaded themselves inside, blocking exits to the building,” the statement added.
The university recounted efforts to peacefully resolve the situation, noting that protesters occupying Siemens Hall, referred to as “Intifada Hall” by demonstrators, were repeatedly asked to relocate their demonstration outside but refused. Subsequently, law enforcement was called, leading to a confrontation when individuals inside resisted arrest.
“Since the beginning, the university’s concern has not been the protest itself,” the statement clarified. “We have a long history of activism and civic engagement on this campus, and we unequivocally support the rights of students and others to assemble peacefully, to protest, and to have their voices heard.”
In a follow-up message, the university announced a “hard closure” and warned that individuals would be prohibited from entering or being on campus without permission, except for students living in residence halls.
The university urged those occupying academic buildings or camping illegally to leave peacefully, noting that voluntary departure may impact the severity of conduct sanctions but does not absolve responsibility for any potential charges.
