Police detained over two dozen pro-Palestinian demonstrators on Friday, following a tumultuous protest that saw hundreds occupying a Denver campus shared by three universities. The arrests came a day after authorities cleared tents erected near the Tivoli building on the Auraria campus, where protesters had made demands, notably calling for the University of Colorado to divest from companies operating in Israel.
These events unfolded amidst a surge of pro-Palestinian rallies on campuses across the United States, prompting increasing concerns among Jewish students for their safety. Similar scenes played out at various colleges, including clashes between police and protesters at Ohio State University and closures at California State Polytechnic University in Humboldt due to blockades. At New York University, a large encampment led to the arrest of 133 protesters.
The Auraria Higher Education Center defended the arrests, citing campus policies against camping and suggesting the presence of “national disruptors” among the protesters. Despite attempts to engage with the demonstrators, authorities maintained that encampments persisted in violation of policies.
Law enforcement officers from Denver and Auraria, along with deputy sheriffs, began making arrests midday, while road closures diverted traffic away from the campus. Protesters confronted officers, some locking arms and surrounding them, resulting in skirmishes. Amidst the chaos, one person distributed tamales, which were later scattered during altercations.
Some 3-4 people have been arrested, peacefully. Protesters have taken down half the tents. pic.twitter.com/9a9UjB5ZVE
— Henry Larson (@hemrylarson) April 26, 2024
Denver Police Department, in a supporting role to Auraria Campus Police, emphasized the enforcement of campus policies regarding camping structures. Meanwhile, tents from the previous night’s encampment lay abandoned nearby.
Among the protesters were State Representatives Elisabeth Epps and Tim Hernandez, who voiced support for the Palestinian cause. Hernandez, previously criticized for attending pro-Palestine rallies, condemned Hamas for recent violence but stood by his solidarity with Palestinian rights.
In addition to divestment demands, protesters called for the cessation of university programs in Israel and a public denunciation of Israel’s actions. The chants of “free, free Palestine” reverberated as protesters asserted their cause.
The protests mirrored a national trend, with similar demonstrations leading to arrests and disruptions at other universities. Concerns about rising antisemitism prompted responses from Jewish organizations and university officials, with efforts to balance free speech and safety for all students.
As police dispersed the crowd and made arrests, protesters bid farewell with applause and chants.