Interim President Larry Jameson of Penn University has made a strong plea for the immediate disbandment of the pro-Palestinian encampment located on College Green, citing serious violations of both legal statutes and university policies.
In a message directed to the Penn community, Jameson voiced deep concerns regarding the encampment’s flagrant disregard for established university regulations. He emphasized the University’s diligent monitoring of the ongoing protest, noting numerous breaches of Penn’s facilities policies and reports of troubling instances of harassment and intimidation.
Protesters have been officially notified of their transgressions and are now facing imminent repercussions if they do not dissolve the encampment promptly.
While a University spokesperson refrained from providing additional comments, Jameson outlined several specific violations, including documented cases of harassment and intimidation by certain individuals involved in the protest. He stressed that such behavior goes against Penn’s core principles of open expression and constitutes violations of state and federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
Jameson also strongly condemned the defacement of the statue in front of College Hall, which was marred by antisemitic graffiti earlier in the day. The act of vandalism, deemed particularly reprehensible, involved the desecration of the Benjamin Franklin statue with offensive language.
Despite efforts by organizers to mitigate the damage, Jameson underscored the severity of the offense and pledged a thorough investigation, treating it as a hate crime.
In reiterating Penn’s unwavering commitment to upholding freedom of inquiry and open expression, Jameson stressed the importance of nurturing an environment free from harassment or discrimination.
While acknowledging the University’s dedication to fostering constructive dialogue, he made it unequivocally clear that any actions aimed at harassing, threatening, or intimidating others would not be tolerated.
Recent discussions between a Jewish Student Advisory Group and Penn administrators underscored the urgency of addressing the situation. A survey conducted by the group revealed numerous accounts of harassment from over 100 Penn students within just one hour, highlighting the significant impact of the encampment on Jewish student life.
Jameson’s statements serve as a testament to Penn’s steadfast stance against behaviors that disrupt campus life or foster a hostile environment. As the University reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its community, it remains steadfast in upholding its policies and principles of free expression.