College students in the United States have voiced opposition against the adoption of new rules around demonstrations on campus following the eruption of pro-Palestinian protests across the country this year.
A wave of pro-Palestinian student protests spread across U.S. college campuses earlier this year. In many cases, encampments were erected, with protesters demanding school administrations divest from Israel.
All of them were eventually removed, in many cases, by use of force.
Following the student protests, some institutions placed limits on the time or location that such protests are permitted, while others require preapproval for any demonstration.
Although administrators say the new rules aim to boost security and safeguard uninterrupted education for their students, critics say students' right to free speech may be suppressed.
"I do think that there is a responsibility of institutions not to militarize their response to their students. But all in all, there is a line in which one may cross where a protest can venture into being unlawful," said Timothy Welbeck, director of the Center for Anti-Racism from Temple University.
Last month, many students returning to their campuses for the new academic year faced a new set of rules, with several colleges banning tents and encampments.
On the anniversary of the new-round of the Palestine-Israel conflict, some students claimed the response to protesters was selective.
"One group got shut down outside, like we weren't allowed on campus, but on the same day another vigil was allowed to be held right next to Thomas building. So, I think that response really showed a lot," said Rhea Cook, a student from University of Southern California.
In one of the nation's largest public university systems, the University of California, blocking facilities, spaces, building entrances, paths and roadways are also forbidden.
"We shouldn't be deciding what kind of speech is available or allowed for students, especially in a time where you're doing so much learning and growing. Students need to be able to fully express themselves and be who they are without fear of disproportionate punishment on our campuses," said Kaira Brown, a college student.
Critics of the new regulations around protests also include some Jewish faculty members and students, who say they fear that freedom of speech may be threatened, even at some of the world's most prestigious institutions.
American students voice opposition to new rules to limit demonstrations
