Redwoods Campus Holds Nation’s Most Persistent Protest

TL/DR –

Pro-Palestinian protesters at California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt have occupied Siemens Hall, the campus president’s office, for over a week, resulting in damages estimated in the millions of dollars. The university has shut down the campus until May 10, and the protesters have made several demands, including the university disclosing its holdings with Israel and cutting ties with Israeli universities. While university officials have labeled the protests as “lawless behavior”, the protesters argue that their actions are a form of “poetic symbolism” emphasizing the value of people over property.

Protesters Occupy California State Polytechnic University Administration Building

University administrators across the nation are closely watching the ongoing situation at Siemens Hall, California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt. The campus president’s office has been occupied for a week by pro-Palestinian protesters who barricaded themselves inside, defaced walls, and renamed the building “Intifada Hall”. The local news site Redheaded Blackbelt reported that graffiti messages like “Time 2 Free Gaza”, “Pigs Not Allowed”, and “Land Back” were painted inside.

Cal Poly Humboldt, located north of San Francisco, is currently the epicenter of a nationwide campus protest. Protesters took control of the campus’s power center, rejecting pleas from officials to vacate. As a result, the university has closed the campus until May 10.

A University with a History of Activism

Despite a pacifist reputation, Cal Poly Humboldt, in Arcata, has a history of protest and resentment toward authority. Sociology professor and department chair, Anthony Silvaggio, highlighted the tradition of activism at the university. Tourists are drawn to the area by its scenic redwoods and historic lumber industry.

Demanding Change

Pro-Palestinian protesters have made several demands since occupying Siemens Hall on April 22, including that the university disclose its relationship with Israel, divest from companies profiting from military action in Gaza, and call for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war.

University administrators have responded to the demands, but tension remains high. On Sunday night, the university asked protesters to leave without offering immunity.

Impact on the Local Community

Former Arcata mayor and university graduate, Bob Ornelas, said responses to the protest have been mixed amongst the liberal community. The local Hotel Arcata has reported daily loss due to cancellations, affecting the local economy.

Protesters said their initial intention was to bring their concerns directly to administrators. However, the arrival of local police in riot gear escalated the situation. Over the weekend, protesters strengthened their barricades, hinting at a long-term occupation.

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