George Washington University president Ellen M. Granberg announced on Thursday that the DC Metropolitan Police were called in to assist in relocating an unauthorized protest encampment on campus. Granberg stated that the encampment was in violation of several university policies and was occupying university space without authorization.
The decision to involve the DC Metropolitan Police was made after repeated instructions from the GWPD for the encampment participants to move to an alternative demonstration site on campus were ignored.
Granberg emphasized that while George Washington University students are allowed to protest within the boundaries of free expression, individuals from other local colleges or unaffiliated persons are not permitted to trespass on campus grounds.
The university is committed to enforcing time, place, and manner restrictions to ensure that campus activities are conducted in an orderly manner. Granberg stressed the importance of protesters adhering to university policies that prohibit disruptions to normal academic activities.
Granberg highlighted the safety concerns and disruptions caused by occupying campus grounds, establishing outdoor encampments, and blocking access to buildings. These activities can impede learning and study, particularly during the critical final exam period.
The university's stance is rooted in its mission, values, and dedication to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. Granberg reiterated the university's commitment to upholding a conducive academic environment for the majority of the community who are not participating in protests.
