Palestine solidarity encampment continues, police increase response overnight [Video]

The “Palestine solidarity encampment” on the Cathedral of Learning lawn is entering its second day, despite a more active response from police Sunday night and Monday morning. The protesters are demanding that Pitt “disclose and divest” from all ties to Israel during its ongoing war with Hamas in Gaza. 

Pitt chancellor Joan Gabel issued a statement at 2:30 p.m. today in which she addressed the Pitt community regarding the protests. Gabel said her goal is for a “peaceful resolution,” and that she maintains her support for free speech. 

“Now more than ever, we want to express our commitment to free expression and critical inquiry as core to our mission and key to a vibrant university environment,” Gabel said. 

Gabel also claimed that many of the protesters do not have ties to the University, saying that “none of these leaders [of the demonstration] are students, and their affiliations are with organizations that have no connection with the University in any capacity.”

The …