Pro-Palestine Activists Arrested By University of Texas at Austin Police After Encampment Demonstration.

Over 100 Arrested at UT Pro-Palestine Protest Encampment

“No encampments will be allowed. Instead, arrests are being made." — Gov. Greg Abbott

Over 100 pro-Palestine protestors arrested at the University of Texas Monday as they demanded the school divest from Israeli weapons manufacturers and call for a cease-fire in Gaza. Protestors set up tents on the campus' South Mall, creating a barrier with foldable tables, some chained together. Chants of "Free Palestine" and "Whose lawn? Our lawn!" echoed across the campus.

This comes after 57 protesters were arrested last Wednesday for criminal trespass, but charges were later dropped due to "deficiencies" in the arrest affidavits, according to Travis County Attorney Delia Garza.

By Monday afternoon, Texas DPS troopers and UT police had dismantled the encampment, arresting over 43 protesters by 5 p.m. with potential charges of resisting arrest and assault. Police used pepper spray on students attempting to stop a van taking protesters to jail, a UT senior reported, with no warning, causing chaos.

In an email obtained by the Statesman, UT police stated that protesters violated Texas laws on disorderly conduct, riots, obstructing passageways, and criminal trespass. UT spokesperson, Brian Davis, alleged protesters ignored directives to comply with institutional rules. Despite this, most arrests are expected to be misdemeanor charges.

Gov. Greg Abbott took to social media with a hardline stance: "No encampments will be allowed."

UT claims it received online threats from an unnamed group organizing the protest and alleged protesters "verbally assaulted" staff. Most protesters are believed to be unaffiliated with the university. The Palestine Solidarity Committee, a student group suspended for organizing previous rallies, expressed support but denied involvement. No single group has claimed responsibility.

Various community groups and pro-Palestine organizations mobilized participants through social media, with posts imagining a "Liberated Zone" on campus and disruptions to campus operations. Protestors plan to continue, despite potential consequences.

References:

• Texas Penal Code
• [American-Statesman]( https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2023/05/03/ut-campus- proteste-divestment-israel-arrests/11056967002/)
• Instagram: Welaunee Defense Society
• Instagram: WDS_ATX
• Instagram: Palestinian Youth Movement
• Instagram: Austin for Palestine Coalition