California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, had to make changes to its upcoming commencement ceremony as a result of anti-Israel protests and unrest on campus. Following agitators occupying two academic buildings on campus, the university announced a modified in-person commencement ceremony with additional ceremonies to accommodate the situation. The forced change occurred after police arrested dozens of anti-Israel protestors who were occupying Siemens Hall and Nelson Hall East. Those arrested face charges of unlawful assembly, vandalism, conspiracy, and assault of police officers. The commencement is scheduled for Saturday, May 11, 2024, and additional details would be provided later in the week.
The university declared a “hard closure” on campus as protests turned into violent demonstrations, stating that no one was allowed to walk through the center of campus. Students with meal plans were permitted to use dining facilities, such as The J, College Creek Marketplace, and the Cupboard, but must walk down LK Wood to Granite Avenue and back to access them. Housing residents were free to leave and return to campus. Law enforcement officers arrested 35 individuals in a peaceful operation to clear and secure the two buildings and surrounding areas, which occurred without incident and reported injuries. Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal commended the school and law enforcement officers for their efforts to restore order on campus.
Cal Poly Humboldt President Tom Jackson Jr. expressed sadness over the events that transpired on campus, stating that it was a difficult day and acknowledging that nobody wanted to see the situation escalate to this point. He described the criminal activity that disrupted campus life as crossing the line beyond the level of a protest and jeopardizing the safety of the campus community. Sheriff Honsal reinforced the importance of law enforcement intervention when criminal activities threaten the rights and safety of others. He emphasized that restoring order on campus was essential in sending a clear message that the disruptive and dangerous activities were not peaceful protests but outright criminal behavior that would not be tolerated.
The university announced the modified commencement ceremony and continued to observe the “hard closure” on campus to maintain order and mitigate any further disruptions or violence. The campus community was encouraged to adhere to the restrictions in place for their safety and well-being. Humboldt County Sheriff Honsal reassured the public that law enforcement was committed to ensuring the safety of the campus and would take necessary actions to prevent any criminal activity that threatens the peace and order of the community. The university awaited further details on the commencement ceremony and continued to work towards resolving the aftermath of the protests and unrest that disrupted campus life.
