Pro-Palestinian encampments at Ivy League schools Columbia and Brown were dismantled last week following lengthy protests. The conclusion of Columbia's encampments was marked by a building takeover, mass arrest, and criticism of the heavy police presence. In contrast, encampments were voluntarily removed at Brown and other institutions.
Despite the protests, none of the schools agreed to fully divest from companies operating in Israel, a common demand among student protesters nationwide. Northwestern University reached a resolution with protesters, promising increased transparency regarding investment holdings and fully funding the education costs of five Palestinian students.
Rutgers University agreed to engage in discussions with student protesters regarding divestment and pledged support for scholarships for at least 10 displaced Gazan students. Both Rutgers and Northwestern also committed to expanding spaces for Arab and Muslim students on campus. Additionally, Rutgers announced plans to review and enhance its existing relationship with Birzeit University in the West Bank.
The University of Minnesota agreed to allow protesters to present a case for divestment to its board. Furthermore, the university expressed willingness to explore an affiliation with a Palestinian university and committed to disclosing investment information in good faith. The university also assured that no disciplinary action would be taken against protesters affiliated with the school.
Brown University's board agreed to conduct a divestment vote in the fall and assured that no student or faculty member involved in the protests would face retaliation. However, they emphasized that reports of bias, harassment, or discrimination would be thoroughly investigated. Rutgers made a similar commitment to address any such reports.
