The University of Southern California reported that campus property was vandalized over the weekend by individuals associated with a group that has been illegally camping on campus. The iconic Tommy Trojan statue and a fountain in Alumni Park were among the targets of the vandalism, although specific details about the damage were not provided by university officials.
Video footage revealed that the words 'Say No to Genocide' had been spray-painted on the base of the Tommy Trojan statue. The university expressed its strong condemnation of these acts, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
According to Joel Curran, the senior vice president of communications at USC, the group responsible for the vandalism has also been disrupting campus operations and harassing students, in violation of university policies. Despite efforts by University President Carol Folt to engage with the students involved, they have declined these offers for dialogue.
Curran stated, 'We are hoping for a more reasonable response from the group before further action is necessary. The affected area needs to be cleared for commencement set up early this week.'
The university reiterated its support for freedom of expression but emphasized that acts of vandalism and harassment cross a line and will not be tolerated. USC officials are urging the individuals involved to cease their disruptive behavior and engage in constructive dialogue to address their concerns.
