The California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt campus will remain closed through the weekend as protesters, including unidentified non-students, continue to occupy two buildings, school officials said in an update.
Work and classes will remain remote, and officials are considering keeping the campus closed for longer due to safety concerns. The protesters, some of whom are not students, have taken over Siemens Hall, barricading entrances and causing a fire hazard. Additionally, there are issues with non-functioning toilets, adding to health and safety risks.
Officials have warned that other campus buildings are at risk of being occupied, with protesters showing a willingness to lock themselves in facilities and steal equipment. Efforts are being made to communicate with the protesters and encourage them to vacate the premises as soon as possible.
Furthermore, hateful graffiti has been discovered on campus, prompting the university to condemn all forms of hatred, bigotry, and violence. The university emphasizes that anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, and other forms of bigotry have no place at Cal Poly Humboldt.
The university supports free speech through open dialogue that is respectful and constructive. However, destructive behavior, property damage, and disruptions to the learning environment are not tolerated. The priority is to ensure that everyone on campus feels safe, included, and respected.
