UNC Charlotte students suspended after protests, march
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Pro-Palestine protest groups marched on UNC Charlotte’s campus Tuesday evening, despite university officials warning that participation in an unauthorized march may result in expulsion or arrest.
Around 50 students, graduates, and community supporters walked down streets through campus.
READ MORE | Protests continue at UNC Charlotte after arrest, pro-Palestine encampment dismantled
Several students said they received a notice of suspension email before the march was over.
University officials cited potential disruptions to final exams and safety concerns as their reasons for prohibiting the march.
Campus police tore down demonstrators’ encampment Tuesday morning. UNC Charlotte officials said students were given written and verbal warnings that the campsite violated school safety policies. At least one person was arrested.
The group, known as UNCC Gaza Solidarity Encampment on Instagram, has met with administrators to discuss their demands. Students ask leaders of the institution to disclose any investments and funding in Israel, divest in those partnerships, and declare Israel’s military actions a genocide.
READ MORE | Police break up pro-Palestine encampment on UNC Charlotte campus; protester arrested
Organizers also ask officials, namely Chancellor Sharon Gabor, to defend student activists’ rights and protests. They said members of the administration have attempted to intimidate and silence them. The group marched to the Chancellor’s Residence and chanted outside for nearly 10 minutes Tuesday night.
Campus leaders designated a location near the football stadium used for tailgating and events, known as The 49th Acre, for protesting activities. The group did not utilize the designated space.
Campus police arrested one person, 18-year-old James Farrell, twice on Tuesday. He was first arrested in the morning when police broke up an encampment on campus. He was charged with Resisting a Public Officer and Disorderly Conduct at a School.
Farrell was arrested by campus police a second time that evening and charged with Second-Degree Trespassing. It is unclear whether he was taking part in the march.
Protesters said they plan to continue their demonstrations but have not finalized plans for future organized efforts.
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