Following the arrest of student protesters at Dartmouth College, collateral damage ensued which included a 65-year-old professor being arrested, student journalists being arrested, and a bystander fracturing his shoulder. The president of Dartmouth College, Sian Leah Beilock, authorized the police action to clear an encampment that students had erected on the college green in protest of Israel’s war in Gaza. This swift action has caused uproar on campus, with some supporting Dr. Beilock’s decision, citing safety concerns, and others criticizing the use of law enforcement against nonviolent protesters.
Multiple colleges across the country have faced encampments by student protesters recently, with various responses being criticized for either being too lenient or too harsh. Dartmouth College stood out for its quick response to the nonviolent protest, with arrests beginning shortly after the tents were erected. Some faculty members believe that using law enforcement to arrest protesters goes against the principles of managing divisive topics on college campuses, while others support Dr. Beilock’s stance to maintain safety and protect Jewish students from potential intimidation.
The incident at Dartmouth College raised concerns about the use of force by police, resulting in injuries to various individuals including a bystander who fractured his shoulder during the arrests. Some faculty members criticized the university’s approach to handling the protesters, while others supported Dr. Beilock’s decision to ensure the safety and well-being of all students on campus. After facing backlash, Dr. Beilock ultimately dropped charges against student reporters who were arrested, acknowledging that an error had been made.
Despite the arrests, student activists at Dartmouth College remain committed to their cause. Months prior to the recent protests, students had already set up tents outside the administration building to seek divestment from Israel. This initial demonstration resulted in arrests, signaling Dr. Beilock’s dedication to enforcing policies on campus. The incidents have further fueled the determination of student activists, who vow to continue advocating for Palestinian rights, despite the challenges they may face.
The campus community at Dartmouth College remains divided over the handling of the student protests, with some supporting Dr. Beilock’s actions and others calling for her resignation. The administration and board have expressed support for Dr. Beilock, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safety and addressing concerns raised by Jewish students on campus. Ongoing discussions and votes within the student body and faculty demonstrate the complex nature of the situation, highlighting the need for dialogue and understanding among all stakeholders involved.
