Occidental's Board of Directors agreed to hold a vote on calls by pro-Palestinian protesters to divest from Israel, ending the encampment on the Los Angeles campus after nine days.
Leaders of Occidental's Students for Justice in Palestine chapter agreed that the camp would be dismantled on Friday, that the group would not reoccupy any space on campus without prior approval and would not impede its start, according to the agreement signed by the vice president. of the university and assistant vice president of student affairs along with two protest leaders.
The university said it would not discipline any protesters for their participation in the encampment “as long as protesters do not increase current levels of encampment, signage or other activities.”
As the academic year draws to a close and colleges prepare for graduation season, concerns about more disruptions on campuses have led schools like USC and Columbia University to cancel their major graduation ceremonies.
While protest encampments on multiple campuses across the country have been the scene of violence and arrests, the encampment at Occidental has remained peaceful, with no conflicts involving counterprotesters or police.
With its agreement to consider divestment from investments and companies linked to Israel, Occidental paved the way for an uninterrupted graduation ceremony on May 19.
“Protesters agree not to cause or promote a substantial disruption to Occidental's graduation ceremony on May 19, 2024, which would create safety concerns for attendees, violate any University policy, or require pausing, canceling, or relocating the event.” “, reads the agreement.
Students for Justice in Palestine's divestment proposal requires the university to investigate and disclose any investments in Boeing Co., Elbit Systems, Caterpillar Inc. and Lockheed Martin, manufacturing companies that have provided weapons and equipment to the Israeli military.
The board of directors will consider the divestiture proposal and vote on a recommendation from its internal investment committee by June 6, according to the agreement.
