NEW YORK — A plywood wall now blocks NYU’s Gould Plaza after police arrested several protesters Monday, amid pro-Palestinian demonstrations sweeping campuses across the country.
Security remains tight around campus Tuesday, and it’s unclear if the protesters will return.
The NYPD has not released information about how many were arrested Monday or what charges they will face. CBS New York saw at least two dozen people taken into custody on four buses. Police said protesters threw objects, including bottles, at officers during the arrests.
The clash came days after police arrested more than 100 demonstrators at Columbia University, sparking other schools to stage similar protests in solidarity.
Students and faculty set up a pro-Palestinian encampment Monday in Gould Plaza, outside NYU’s Stern School of Business in Lower Manhattan. After several hours, university officials said the barricades were breached, and they “asked for assistance from the NYPD.” Police in riot gear then moved in, taking down tents and taking people into custody.
“We will continue to support individuals’ right to freedom of expression, and, as we have said since October, the safety of our students and maintaining an equitable learning environment remain paramount,” NYU said in a statement Monday night.
Pro-Palestinian encampment continues at Columbia University
Chopper 2 flew over Columbia University’s great lawn early Tuesday morning, where pro-Palestinian demonstrators camped out in tents overnight. The demonstration started last Wednesday and now enters its seventh day.
The university switched to remote learning Monday to deescalate tensions on campus, as Jewish students report feeling unsafe, especially heading into the Passover holiday.
School officials say all classes on the Morningside campus will offer a hybrid option for the rest of the semester.
“Safety is our highest priority as we strive to support our students’ learning and all the required academic operations,” the Office of the Provost posted online. “It’s vital that teaching and learning continue during this time.”
Campus access has been restricted, and officers remain stationed outside several entrances. Students were seen entering at 117th Street, as classes resumed Tuesday morning.
