On October 21, 2024, UCLA hosted a fervent demonstration led by Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine, showcasing passionate displays of advocacy amid tensions with university officials over a Sukkah installation. Moments of conflict arose when security tore down protest signs while demonstrators chanted for justice. The event reflected a deep intertwining of cultural expression and political action, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for Palestinian rights.
On October 21, 2024, the UCLA campus buzzed with the fervor of the Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine demonstration. Morning broke with Chabad and Alpha Epsilon Pi setting up a Sukkah in Bruin Plaza, stirring curiosity among passersby. Although the UCLA Fire Marshal had previously deemed another Sukkah a fire hazard, the protesters declared their installation a sacred expression of faith, igniting tensions with university officials. As the clock struck 2:10 p.m., a dramatic clash erupted when private security officers arrived, ruthlessly tearing down a demonstrator’s sign that boldly proclaimed, “By soul, by blood.” At that moment, three activists defiantly replaced it with a new message labeling the UCPD as “Fascist” and demanding abolition. The atmosphere was electric, charged with passionate cries from students rallying for justice. In an Instagram update, the Faculty for Justice in Palestine proclaimed their steadfastness against university pressures, refusing to dismantle the Sukkah. Meanwhile, Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine expressed fears about potential police action against their peaceful displays. At noon, a dynamic crowd of about 30 protesters rallied together, chanting, “UC, UC, you can’t hide, we charge you with apartheid!” UCPD’s acknowledgement on social media warned of the demonstration’s “unauthorized” status, yet their presence did little to quell the demonstrators’ resolve. The crowd continued its mission as university representatives faced them, insisting the Sukkah’s presence was in breach of policy. Despite warnings, the students remained tenacious, claiming their right to religious expression. A vibrant teach-in focused on divestment drew a gathering of about 40 advocates, while others adorned trees with pink tape declaring “DANGER.” The chants echoed the haunting cries for freedom, resonating with slogans like “Lebanon will be free” and “Gaza will be free.” As the rhythmic calls for justice unfurled, the passion lingered in the air, an embodiment of resilience and unity as they chanted against oppression. The day’s events culminated in students hanging a green banner emblazoned with the words “By soul, by blood” on Perloff Hall, a testament to their struggle. Benjamin Kersten, representing Jewish Voice for Peace, condemned complicity in genocide and occupation while drawing on the significance of sacred observances like Sukkot. Such profound actions echoed those previously seen at other renowned campuses, advocating persistently for justice in Palestine as they transformed the moment into a movement.
The demonstration by Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine at UCLA emerges from ongoing tensions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and calls for accountability from universities. Building on a backdrop of similar protests at institutions like UC Berkeley and Columbia, this event reflects a blend of cultural observance and political activism, demonstrating students’ efforts to advocate for justice within a complex sociopolitical environment. The use of Sukkot as a symbol amplifies their message, intertwining faith with activism in the pursuit of social justice.
The Graduate Students for Justice in Palestine demonstration at UCLA encapsulates a blend of religious observance and fervent activism. As students rallied to assert their rights, tensions flared with university authorities over the presence of the Sukkah. Despite pressures and conflicting policies, demonstrators displayed unwavering commitment to their cause, raising powerful slogans and creating a vibrant space for discourse on justice for Palestine. This event serves as a poignant reminder of the intersections between personal faith and collective political struggle.
Original Source: dailybruin.com
