UPenn Finally Tries to Ban Encampments

The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia has changed its protest guidelines to prevent students from forming encampments on campus following the recent pro-Palestine demonstrations at the university.

“To ensure the safety of the Penn community and to protect the health and property of individuals, encampments and overnight demonstrations are not permitted in any University location, regardless of space (indoor or outdoor),” the new guidelines state. “Unauthorized overnight activities will be considered trespassing and addressed.”

“Individuals and groups may not erect structures, walls, barriers, sculptures, or other objects on University property without prior permission from the Vice Provost for University Life,” the policy continues. “Any structure erected without permission is subject to immediate removal.”

The new rules come in the wake of pro-Palestine demonstrations on campus in which more than 30 individuals were arrested. The encampment was set up for over two weeks before the university and city police were forced to take it down.