The events at Virginia Tech reflected those taking place around the country in recent days as campus officials have faced off with pro-Palestinian protesters calling for an end to Israel’s war in Gaza.
Among other causes, students have demonstrated in support of Palestinian rights and have demanded their schools disclose or cease investment in companies doing business with Israel.
The arrests in Blacksburg followed those made Saturday at another public institution in Virginia. The University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg said 12 people, including nine students, were arrested in connection with a protest that it said violated guidelines.
Virginia Tech said the protest on its campus began Friday morning outside the Graduate Life Center. The school said protesters had been told that they were violating policy on the use of campus facilities.
In its statement, the university said that on Sunday, protesters “continued to refuse to comply with policy and took further steps to occupy the lawn of the Graduate Life Center” and spaces next to a student center.
The school said it “recognized that the situation had the increasing potential to become unsafe.”
Virginia Tech said in the statement it released late Sunday that it “values free speech and the protesters’ right to be heard, but only if the rights of others and public safety can be assured.”
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
