Police moved to clear an encampment at Yale University in Connecticut, but there were no immediate reports of arrests. The university issued final warnings to protesters, stating that those who did not end the encampment would face discipline, including suspension and possible arrest for trespassing. Despite attempts by Yale College Dean Pericles Lewis to convince the protesters to express their views in other ways, the encampment continued near student dorms, libraries, and classrooms, disrupting academic operations. While the university supports peaceful protests and freedom of speech, taking control of shared spaces is inconsistent with their principles and values and not tolerated.
Yale Police and New Haven police surrounded the encampment with caution tape early in the morning, warning that those inside would be subject to arrest and suspension if they did not leave. The New Haven police department confirmed that 29 officers had been deployed to assist with removing protesters, although no arrests had been made. Protesters who remained outside of the encampment were advised by New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson that they would not be allowed back onto Cross Campus until the area was cleared by the Yale Police Department. Demonstrators chanted slogans as they were removed, claiming to have created a community that did not rely on law enforcement for safety.
Yale Police Officer Sabrina Wood stated that officers were searching the encampment for valuable items like medications, phones, and computers. Personal belongings would be available at the Yale Police Department, while other items, such as tents and blankets, would be taken to the Yale Office of Facilities. This police action came after Yale University President Peter Salovey issued a call for civility, emphasizing that encampments and other actions that restrict access to campus spaces hinder the free exchange of ideas. Salovey urged protesters to express their views in ways that comply with university policies and foster civil discourse.
The protests at Yale also received attention for their anti-Israel sentiments, with chants accusing the police of being similar to the IDF. Protesters also claimed that the police were removing them out of fear of the community they had built. Despite this, no arrests were made at the time, as protesters were asked to avoid impeding traffic or entering the road. The university reiterated its support for peaceful protests and freedom of speech, while maintaining that violating policies on using outdoor spaces and other guidelines was not acceptable. President Salovey called on all parties involved to express their views in a manner that fosters civil discourse and complies with university policies.
Overall, the incident at Yale involved the removal of an encampment by police due to disruptions to academic operations and violations of university policies. While protesters were warned and given opportunities to leave before facing disciplinary actions, some chose to remain and were subsequently removed. The university reiterated its commitment to peaceful protests and freedom of speech but emphasized the importance of complying with university policies and fostering civil discourse. Fox News reporters Tamara Gitt, Chris Pandolfo, and The Associated Press provided additional details on the situation.
