Chicago police officers were seen Thursday morning taking down an anti-Israel encampment that had persisted for more than two weeks at DePaul University. The encampment, which began on April 30, was located on the Lincoln Park quad of the university's North Side campus.
Officers in riot gear arrived just before 6 a.m. to clear the encampment, following escalating tensions and safety concerns. DePaul President Robert L. Manuel stated that the encampment had led to physical altercations, threats of violence, and disruptions to academic activities on campus.
In a letter addressing the situation, Manuel emphasized the university's commitment to protecting free speech and dissent but noted that the encampment had crossed a line by impeding university operations and endangering community members. Negotiations with the DePaul Divestment Coalition, which organized the encampment, were unsuccessful after 17 days of discussions.
As a result of the clearance, the quad and all green spaces on the Lincoln Park Campus have been closed until further notice. Manuel warned that individuals attempting to breach the fenced areas would face trespassing charges, arrest, and suspension from the university.
DePaul University will also investigate any complaints of harassment or discrimination related to the encampment or subsequent events. The closure of the green spaces is intended to facilitate property repairs and restore normal campus operations.
