Portland State University announced that its campus would be closed on Wednesday due to anti-Israel protesters causing graffiti and destruction inside its main library. Messages such as “We’ll stop occupying this building when Israel stops occupying Palestine” were spray-painted on the walls, and the fire alarm system was ripped out. The protest resulted in a pile of chairs and furniture blocking a stairwell, shattered glass, and a tent set up inside the building. President Ann Cudd called for police assistance to clear out the building and urged protesters to end their occupation.
Cudd released a video message to the protesters, expressing willingness to engage in constructive dialogue but emphasizing the need to evacuate the library. Concerns were raised about the safety of those inside the building, and security measures were implemented to restrict access. Approximately 50 to 75 people were estimated to be still occupying the library. Police Chief Bob Day stated that the situation had escalated to a criminal event, requiring a different response than a public order or free speech event. Plans were being developed to deescalate the situation without arrests or use of force.
Strong measures were expected to be taken against the protesters, with District Attorney Mike Schmidt anticipating felony charges such as burglary and felony criminal mischief, in addition to other possible misdemeanors. PSU expressed concern for the safety of the individuals involved and called for faculty, staff, and students to stay off campus until further notice. The university urged the protesters to voluntarily leave the library to facilitate discussions. The situation was ongoing, with efforts being made to resolve it peacefully.
Images and reports of the incident at Portland State University’s library highlighted the tensions and disruptions caused by the anti-Israel protests. The graffiti and destruction inside the library prompted the closure of the campus and the involvement of law enforcement to address the situation. PSU President Cudd’s pleas for the protesters to vacate the building and engage in dialogue underscored the university’s efforts to resolve the conflict peacefully. The breach of the library and continued occupation were viewed as criminal behavior, with plans in place to handle the situation appropriately.
The impact of the anti-Israel protests at Portland State University was felt on multiple fronts, from the physical damage to the building to the broader concerns about safety and security on campus. The response from university officials, law enforcement, and the district attorney’s office sought to address the escalating situation and prevent further harm. The closure of the campus and the ongoing presence of protesters in the library reflected the challenges faced by the university in managing the conflict and ensuring the well-being of its community members. Efforts were being made to deescalate the situation and prevent any arrests or use of force in resolving the standoff.
