Protests and Activism on U.S. College Campuses: A Look at the Movement

Elizabeth Howell-Egan, a law student at the University of Southern California, is barred from campus due to her involvement in last spring’s anti-war protests. Despite this, she remains active in her activism efforts. Howell-Egan and other like-minded students are conducting online sessions and distributing fliers about the Israel-Hamas war.

Members of the school’s Students for Justice in Palestine chapter, including Howell-Egan, are urging USC to divest from companies that are profiting from the war. While their activism has led to consequences such as being banned from campus, facing disciplinary measures, and risking their academic and professional futures, these students believe in standing up for what they believe is right.

This fall, tensions have escalated for students protesting the war in Gaza as colleges across the U.S. implement stricter security measures and protest guidelines to prevent disruptions and ensure student safety. Despite these challenges, student activists are finding alternative ways to continue their protests, motivated by the escalating death toll in Gaza and recent protests in Israel demanding a cease-fire.

The conflict over the Israel-Hamas war has deeply impacted American campuses, with pro-Palestinian demonstrators facing backlash, including instances of hostility and hate speech directed towards Jewish students. As the debate over divestment from companies linked to Israel continues, student activists are committed to pushing for change on their campuses.

Alia Amanpour Trapp’s Story

At Temple University, senior Alia Amanpour Trapp, despite facing disciplinary actions for her activism, remains steadfast in her commitment to fighting for justice. Inspired by her family history of political activism and sacrifice, Trapp continues to be involved in Students for Justice in Palestine and has been at the forefront of protests on campus.

Trapp reflects on the challenges she has faced and the importance of standing up for what she believes in, even when faced with opposition. Her activism, while controversial, is driven by a desire to be part of a community committed to creating positive change.

The Push for Divestment

At Brown University, students are advocating for the school to divest from companies with ties to Israel, despite facing criticism and opposition. The campus community is engaged in discussions and forums to address the issue of divestment and its implications.

While the debate over divestment continues to spark controversy, students like Rafi Ash are resolute in their belief that advocating for justice is a fundamental part of their identity and values. Despite facing challenges and disciplinary actions, these students are determined to make their voices heard.

Challenges and Strategies

For Elizabeth Howell-Egan and other activists at USC, the crackdown on campus activism has only fueled their determination to continue their protests. While facing sanctions and disciplinary measures, these students remain committed to advocating for change and challenging the status quo.

Despite being barred from in-person classes and dealing with the repercussions of their activism, these students are finding new ways to engage in protest and activism, both on and off-campus. By organizing teach-ins and community outreach efforts, they are striving to raise awareness and build a stronger movement for change.

As the debate over the Israel-Hamas war and divestment from companies involved in the conflict continues to unfold on college campuses, student activists remain resolute in their commitment to fighting for justice and creating a better future for all.

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