Student-run newspapers at universities across the country have taken on a crucial role in covering protests related to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. At Ohio State University, editor-in-chief Arianna Smith and her staff at The Lantern have been covering pro-Palestinian protests on campus, even as they navigate finals week and a transition to the next year’s staff. The student journalists are immersing themselves in the protests, providing transparency and scrutiny of authorities’ actions, and analyzing university policies. This moment is shaping up to be a seminal one in their budding careers.
Similarly, at the University of Southern California, editor-in-chief Anjali Patel and her team at The Daily Trojan found themselves at the frontline of protests that led to nearly 100 arrests. The student-led publication leveraged its knowledge of the campus and community to provide a unique angle in their coverage. As tensions rose on campus following the cancellation of a Muslim valedictorian’s commencement speech and main graduation ceremony, The Daily Trojan mobilized writers to cover the evolving situation. With police presence escalating, the newspaper deployed a larger team to ensure comprehensive coverage of the events.
The wave of protests and arrests has not been limited to Ohio State and USC. At the University of Texas at Austin, pro-Palestinian demonstrators clashed with state troopers in riot gear resulting in multiple student arrests. Governor Greg Abbott’s warning against anti-Semitism and calls for student expulsions have heightened tensions on campus. Amelia Kimball, associate managing editor of The Daily Texan, described the feeling of betrayal and anger among students after the arrests, noting that the presence of state troopers before the protests began escalated the situation beyond expectations.
The student journalists covering these protests are not only juggling classes and exams but are also deeply connected to their campus communities. They are translating the mood and sentiments of the student body for a wider audience, offering a unique perspective on the events unfolding on campus. Despite the challenges and pressures they face, these young journalists are committed to providing objective and in-depth coverage of the protests and the issues surrounding them. Their dedication to serving as a crucial source of news and information during this critical time reflects their understanding of the power and responsibility of journalism.
As universities grapple with how to handle protests and demonstrations on campus, student-run newspapers have emerged as essential sources of information and transparency. The work being done by student journalists at universities like Ohio State, USC, and UT Austin is not only shaping their careers but also shaping the narrative and understanding of the protests for the nation at large. Their commitment to truth, objectivity, and accountability is not only a testament to their journalistic skills but also a reflection of their dedication to serving their communities and the broader public. This pivotal moment in their careers is highlighting the importance of student journalism in covering complex and contentious issues on campus and beyond.
