Nineteen protesters were arrested Friday night during a demonstration on the University of Pennsylvania campus in Philadelphia’s University City section. The protest, organized by Penn Gaza Solidarity, escalated into a confrontation with police as demonstrators attempted to occupy Fisher-Bennett Hall.
Details of the Protest
The demonstration began around 9 p.m., with protesters planning to occupy Fisher-Bennett Hall. A group managed to enter the hall and attempt to occupy it before police arrived. Chopper 6 footage showed Philadelphia police swarming the university and engaging in scuffles with some of the pro-Palestinian demonstrators.
Arrests and Charges
According to the university, 19 individuals, including seven Penn students, were arrested. Twelve of these individuals were issued citations for failure to disperse and failure to follow police commands and were later released. Seven protesters remain in custody, facing felony charges, including one for assaulting a police officer.
Police Findings
After clearing Fisher-Bennett Hall, officers discovered “lock-picking tools and homemade metal shields fashioned from oil drums.” They also found that the exit doors had been secured with zip-ties, barbed wire, and barricaded with metal chairs and desks. Windows were covered with newspaper and cardboard, and bike racks and metal chairs blocked outside entrances. A Penn spokesperson emphasized the university’s focus on maintaining campus safety and security.
Protesters’ Demands
The protesters claimed that they decided to take over Fisher-Bennett Hall because Penn administrators failed to meet their demands and refused to negotiate in good faith. Their demands included the disclosure of Penn’s investments, divestment from Israeli companies, and defending pro-Palestine protesters.
Previous Incidents
Friday’s protest follows a week after police dismantled a two-week encampment on the College Green, demonstrating ongoing tensions between the university and pro-Palestinian activists.
March and Dispersal
Before dispersing just before 11 p.m., demonstrators marched from the campus to the Penn Museum and then to Franklin Field, where commencement ceremonies are scheduled in the coming days.
