A group of anti-Israel protesters at the University of California, Los Angeles, known as Students for Justice in Palestine, put out a list of requested donations including defensive materials such as skater helmets, shields, wood for barriers, and safety gear like elbow and knee pads. These items were labeled as urgent needs, suggesting that the group is preparing for a potential conflict. The protesters are also requesting medical supplies, food, and sleeping bags to sustain their UCLA Palestine Solidarity Encampment.
In addition to defensive materials, the group also requested utility gloves, goggles, gas masks, headlamps, and other items for protection. The list of requested donations also included rope, zip-ties, generators, and personal care items like Epi-Pens, inhalers, lotion, and Aquaphor. The group specified that they need utility gloves without reinforced knuckles and pairs specifically made for small hands. A separate spreadsheet for donors interested in providing food was linked in the document, with strict guidelines on what items were not allowed in the encampment, including packaged food, coffee, bagels, bananas, nuts, and sunscreen.
The protesters claimed that they will not leave until their demands are met, and accused counter-protesters of a life-threatening assault after a violent clash on campus. The situation escalated into chaos and required LAPD intervention. The group alleged that their aggressors were armed with pepper spray, gas canisters, and bricks, which may explain the request for shields and gas masks. UCLA canceled classes following the violence and closed down Royce Hall and the surrounding area for the rest of the week to promote safety. Student Affairs provided support for affected students.
The donation list was shared on the group’s Instagram page, where protesters compared themselves to Palestinians in the Gaza war. The group’s requests for specific items and food preferences reflect their dedication to sustaining the encampment. The protesters appear determined to stay and continue their demonstration until their demands are met. Community members, students, and other donors were encouraged to provide aid in the form of requested items or food items that met the group’s requirements. The situation at UCLA remains tense as both sides of the conflict prepare for potential further clashes.
