Photo: James Rojas/WBZ NewsRadio
MEDFORD, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Tensions at Tufts University are on the rise as students and supporters of the pro-Palestinian movement refuse to leave their encampment. Students will face suspension and other penalties by the school if they refuse to leave such as sanctions and/or a ban on commencement ceremonies if resistance continues.
The university has issued a no trespass order after negotiations between student protesters and their supporters to quell the protests have failed.
A letter from Tufts president Sunil Kumar says that protesters have engaged in several actions that have indicated the desire to escalate the situation, and that outside protesters on campus have raised safety concerns as well.
The president has also emphasized the potential cancelation of commencement exercises if these activities continue, but this has not deterred protesters and their message.
“Our lives are in Gaza, [and] we will not back down,” said a protester who did not wish to be identified.
A statement from the university’s president says that students rejected their offer to meet with them in person in exchange for ending the encampment beforehand.
WBZ's James Rojas (@JamesRojasMMJ) reports.
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