Pro-Palestinian student activists set up encampment at NU

About 50 student activists began setting up tents on Deering Meadow Thursday morning in an effort to pressure Northwestern to divest from companies and cut ties with institutions connected to Israel.

Six days later, demonstrators wrapped up negotiations with the University.

As negotiations finished, the University agreed to permit protests in support of Palestine at the Meadow through June 1. The permit will require that only NU students, faculty and staff be allowed in the demonstration area, unless otherwise authorized by the University.

In exchange, the Northwestern Divestment Coalition, which organized the encampment effort, will commit to leaving only one aid tent on the lawn. Though students will still be able to organize under a permit granted by NU, they will use only approved devices to project or amplify sound.

The encampment, organized by the NU Divestment Coalition, comes as students across the country are protesting their universities’ involvement in Israel’s war in Gaza, with some facing arrests.

Israel’s military action in Gaza has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians, according to Palestinian officials. Israel’s ground and air offensive follows the militant group Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on Israel which killed about 1,200 Israelis, according to Israeli officials.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

MAY 3 – 12:05 p.m.

University Facilities began taking down signs and banners on the fence separating Deering Meadow and Sheridan Road just before 8 a.m. Friday morning. University spokesperson Hilary Hurd Anyaso told The Daily the art was taken down “in compliance with University policies.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

MAY 1 – 3:08 p.m.

University spokesperson Eliza Larson told The Daily in a statement that some faculty received a message notifying them that holding class at any protests, proposing alternate assignments or cancelling classes can be exclusionary or discriminatory. The message added that such action can be justification for a grade appeal or a complaint to the Office of Civil Rights.

The spokesperson also pointed to the section of the interim demonstration policy that states “on weekdays, demonstrations at The Rock may not occur until after 3 p.m., when most classes in adjacent buildings have concluded.” Demonstrators have been at The Rock since the morning.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

MAY 1 – 2:10 p.m.

Protesters say University representatives just distributed flyers to May Day participants announcing that they are in violation of NU’s Code of Conduct.

The letter, addressed from the Office of Community Standards, says students failed to comply with the requests or instructions of a University official or emergency personnel and are in violation of the Interim Policy for Student Demonstrations, announced Thursday morning.

— Sonya Dymova, Senior Staffer

MAY 1 – 11:00 a.m.

Demonstrators said they are going to start their first programming of the day, a teach-in.

“This is the real classroom,” a protester said.

— Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

MAY 1 – 10:43 a.m.

There are around 40 students at The Rock right now.

— Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

MAY 1 – 10:33 a.m.

Student demonstrators have organized a May Day strike on classes, asking students to forego attending and professors to forego teaching. The strike, occurring now at The Rock, will feature programming starting at 11:30 a.m. and culminate in a no-tent sleepover on Deering Meadow.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 5 – 9:23 p.m.

Seven tents remain on the southwest corner of the Meadow. Demonstrators are holding a town hall to discuss the remaining disassembly of the encampment.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 5 – 8:15 p.m.

About a dozen tents and more than fifty people remain on the Meadow.

— Aviva Bechky, Senior Staffer

DAY 5 – 7:03 p.m.

Demonstrators are taking down tents and transporting, canopies, tarps and water bottles off the Meadow. About 18 tents remain on the Meadow, and supplies are being moved to the University of Chicago, the University of Wisconsin at Madison, and the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, according to encampment organizers.

— Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

DAY 5 – 3:59 p.m.

In a statement at Faculty Assembly, Medill Prof. Steven Thrasher said, “The police did assault us, and we are very curious who ordered that. They tried to assault our students.”

Many faculty members are expressing disappointment with lack of transparency from administration and sympathy for the people of Gaza.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 5 – 3:54 p.m.

In a statement on Instagram, the Northwestern University Divestment Coalition celebrated the “concrete measures” established by the agreement with the university. The statement said organizers have “achieved the first step toward divestment, which is disclosure” while highlighting that demonstrators will continue to fight for Palestinian liberation.

“We emphasize that the result of these negotiations is the floor for our progress going forward, not the ceiling,” the statement said. “It does not put an end to our work to continue applying pressure on the administration or the Board of Trustees in the coming months and years.”

— Aviva Bechky, Senior Staffer

DAY 5 – 3:50 p.m.

Faculty at the Faculty Assembly meeting are asking questions about the encampment, but provost Kathleen Hagerty said she won’t be taking questions now. She is allowing statements but not questions.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 5 – 3:49 p.m.

At the Faculty Assembly meeting, Schill also said that the inclusion of non-NU students in the demonstrations was “a worry for me” and other members of the administration.

“The health and safety of our students, our faculty and our staff — including our police officers — is, was, and always will be our number one concern,” he said.

He also noted that discussions about a permanent Muslim/MENA space, which is expected to come to campus in permanent form by 2026 per the agreement, have been ongoing for “about a year.”

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 5 – 3:43 p.m.

“We, like many universities, are going through an exceptionally difficult time. Like other universities, we have seen a rise in antisemitism,” President Michael Schill said at the Faculty Assembly meeting, citing a poster that depicted the Star of David with an X through it and another that showed Schill with devil horns.

“This sort of thing needs to be condemned by all of us,” he said. He added that he thinks the coalition negotiators were “appalled” by the hate as well.

He also acknowledged that “many of our students who are Muslim and Palestinian are hurting right now. They have lost friends, they have lost families in the war in Gaza. They are scared to walk the streets of Evanston and Chicago.”

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 5 – 3:35 p.m.

Rain falls on the encampment as dozens of demonstrators take down their tents.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 5 – 3:33 p.m.

“We were hoping to avoid the situation that happened at other schools where there’s just been a lot of violence and then there’s nothing to show for it,” Northwestern Provost Kathleen Hagerty said at a Faculty Assembly meeting. “We’ve made some progress and we’ll see, but we’re not out of the woods yet.”

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 5 – 3:20 p.m.

The Jewish organizers said that resources for Jewish students on campus will expand and that “We are going to be able to pick a new rabbi.” They want to ensure that Hillel, which they called “notoriously Zionist,” is not the only Jewish space on campus.

They also acknowledged that the protestors made a “major concession” in agreeing to take down tents, but said that though the tents were amazing, “it’s not about the tents. It’s about liberation for Palestine.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Samanta Habashy and Fiona Roach, Senior Staffers

DAY 5 – 3:18 p.m.

Two Jewish organizers told the demonstrators they’re honored to stand in front of everyone to celebrate their wins, though they also emphasized that “the fight is not over and we will be here until liberation for Palestine is won.”

“This encampment right here is about love and community and support. Myself, as a Jewish student had never felt so supported, so loved, so carried in my strength, so strong in my faith as I do here in the NU liberation zone,” one said.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Samanta Habashy and Fiona Roach, Senior Staffers

DAY 5 – 3:12 p.m.

Two Palestinian students are now at the microphone. While they said they understood not everyone will see the agreement as a win, they hope that now Palestinian, brown, Muslim and other marginalized students can have a moment of peace on campus.

“This is our chance to be able to speak up on our own behalf and not have someone who does not claim those identities speak for us,” one said.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Samanta Habashy and Fiona Roach, Senior Staffers

DAY 5 – 3:11 p.m.

“You are all essential parts of this movement, for this win today and the fight we have to go forward,” the organizer said in their speech. “So let’s do this s—!”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 5 – 3:07 p.m.

“We need to stay mobilized,” an organizer said. “The second Northwestern backs out of this legally binding contract… we gotta be ready to escalate.” Michael Schill, however, did not explicitly say the agreement was legally binding in his press release.

The organizers also said that while Schill said he does not know where the univeristy endowment is invested, “We are gonna know where the money goes.”

— Beatrice Villaflor and Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffers

DAY 5 – 3:05 p.m.

An organizer said they are looking forward to “scale back and scale up,” adding that they are glad the Chicago community won’t be split between encampments. Demonstrators at the University of Chicago launched an encampment this morning.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 5 – 2:57 p.m.

The resolution was approved by a 17-1 vote of the Northwestern Divestment Coalition organizers, according to organizers.

—Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

DAY 5 – 2:48 p.m.

“Schill just released a statement proving tangible steps toward divestment today,” an organizer said. “We have been working tirelessly to bring you this statement we are very proud of and hope you guys can be very proud of this milestone we made.”

—Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

DAY 5 – 2:46 p.m.

In a message to Faculty Assembly, English Prof. Barbara Newman says FacSen had no role in drafting or approving the new policy in a letter to the Senate, which is sponsoring a previously scheduled Faculty Assembly meeting this afternoon.

—Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 5 – 2:45 p.m.

“We have an extremely exciting update for you all,” organizers at the Meadow said.

—Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

DAY 5 – 2:30 p.m.

BREAKING: Student demonstrators wrapped up negotiations with the University Monday after five days of demonstrations. The University will engage in a number of steps to support Palestinian students and protest on campus in exchange for an end to the encampment established on Deering Meadow Thursday, the University announced Monday.

Read the full story here.

—Jacob Wendler and Avani Kalra, Senior Staffers

DAY 5 – 1:05 p.m.

Weinberg Prof. Nitasha Sharma, director of the Asian American Studies program, just addressed demonstrators. She said demonstrators’ efforts at the encampment are part of Northwestern’s legacy of student activism that gave birth to the Black Studies and Asian American Studies program.

“I’m a Jewish woman of color and people need to know that we are supportive of this movement against the genocide (in Gaza),” Sharma said.

—Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 5 – 12:40 p.m.

A “Study Area” made up of 14 lawn chairs has been set up on the southeast side of the lawn. 11 chairs are currently occupied — ten by individuals who appear to be students and one by someone who does not appear to be a student.

—Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 5 – 9:30 a.m.

After a rainy night, the camp enters Monday morning quietly. Some protest marshals are working on the camp, while many demonstrators in their tents rest. There’s no active chanting in the camp or on the street.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 5 – 1:45 a.m.

The drizzle is now a downpour and almost every demonstrator is now in a tent.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 5 – 1:03 a.m.

As a drizzle starts to settle in, most demonstrators still outside are heading into their sleeping tents.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 4 – 10:55 p.m.

About a dozen protesters are learning Attan, a traditional dance among the Pashtun tribes in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

— David Samson, Development and Recruitment Editor

DAY 4 – 9:38 p.m.

Pre-packaged meals of beef halal and salad from Meat Moot Smoking were delivered for demonstrators to eat.

— Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

DAY 4 – 9:25 p.m.

About 100 people are chanting on the sidewalk and bike lane between Deering Meadow and Sheridan Road.

— David Samson, Development and Recruitment Editor

DAY 4 – 9:00 p.m.

Abughnaim encouraged demonstrators to use their skills to aid Gaza.

“Everybody has a role, everybody has a use,” she said.

According to Abughnaim, the conversation was the last event of today’s scheduled programming.

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 8:58 p.m.

Two university police vehicles have parked by the Jacobs Center near the northeast side of Deering Lawn.

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 8:55 p.m.

Tammy Abughnaim and Chandra Hassan, two doctors who spent time treating victims in Gaza, shared their experiences with demonstrators.

Abughnaim spoke about caring for a dying child with people at the encampment.

“Israel made sure this child died a most painful death,” Tammy said. “All he had was me.”

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 8:28 p.m.

After the sun set, dozens of demonstrators moved from the encampment to the side of Sheridan Road. Demonstrators are chanting, “Whose campus, our campus.”

Demonstrators by Sheridan Road are chanting, “Intifada, Intifada, love live the Intifada.

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 7:55 p.m.

Hundreds of demonstrators have gathered in prayer on the northeast side of Deering Lawn.

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 7:35 p.m.

A young boy took the stage to tell demonstrators that “Palestine will be free very soon.” He then led the crowd in a chant of “Free, free Palestine”

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 7:35 p.m.

Northwestern Community Ensemble is performing several songs in support of Palestine.

They are currently singing a song titled “Joy is Coming,” with lyrics stating, “Though the night may seem weary, joy is coming, coming, coming in the morning.”

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 7:25 p.m.

Demonstrators continue to chant, drum and dance next to Sheridan Road, encouraging passersby to honk to support their cause. “Resistance is justified, when people are occupied,” they chant.

A group of demonstrators is performing Dabke, a traditional dance performed in Palestine. One demonstrator said the dance is traditionally performed at celebrations, but it is also performed in instances of resistance.

— Lily Ogburn, Staff Editor

DAY 4 – 6:55 p.m.

Members of the Northwestern multicultural theater organization Vibrant Colors Collective have begun a reading of the Gaza Monologues, testimonies written by ASHTAR youth in 2010.

— Jerry Wu, Assistant Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 6:44 p.m.

Oncoming drivers in their cars, some with Palestinian flags hung out the window, continue to honk to show solidarity with the encampment and Palestine. Demonstrators’s chants of “Not another nickel, not another dime, “Free, free Palestine,” and “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” rang along Sheridan Road.

— Jerry Wu, Assistant Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 6:21 p.m.

A few more demonstrators have begun setting up tents in the encampment.

— Jerry Wu, Assistant Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 5:58 p.m.

For the last half an hour, organizers have invited demonstrators to participate in a meet and greet to get to know others at the encampment.

“We’re going to be here for awhile, we’ll be here as long as it takes, so get connected make friends meet your neighbor,” an organizer said.

The same organizer also announced a group therapy session will be hosted at 6 p.m at the Marjorie Weinberg Garden.

— Jerry Wu, Assistant Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 5:44 p.m.

Demonstrators are writing down on strips of cloth of their hopes of the future to tie up on a wish tree. Among notes included “End the genocide,” “To celebrate together in a free Palestine, “Free Haiti” and “For the people 2 know their power.”

— Jerry Wu, Assistant Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 5:27 p.m.

Nick Sous with the U.S. Palestinian Community Network is speaking and leading chants at Deering Meadow.

“This is not about any single individual or their feeling, this moment is all about students putting their bodies, their education and their lives at risk,” he said. “So when they call, will you answer?”

— Jerry Wu, Assistant Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 4:26 p.m.

Political Science Prof. Wendy Pearlman, the interim director of the Middle East and North African studies program and a member of NU Educators for Justice in Palestine, is currently speaking at the encampment. She served as president of Harvard’s chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine as a graduate student.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 3:34 p.m.

Protesters are hand-printing shirts with “Free Palestine” and “NU: Divest, Disclose.”

The Refaat Alareer Memorial Library, a table where demonstrators can borrow and donate books, has over 30 books right now.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 2:20 p.m.

An organizer just announced that there are social workers behind the medical tent for demonstrators who need help processing their emotions regarding the recent encounter with counterprotesters.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 2:16 p.m.

A Christian group is now praying for the encampment and for Gaza. There are hundreds outside on the grass, listening to the prayer.

“God is in every occupied place, with every occupied person, especially in Gaza,” one member of the group said.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 4 – 1:57 p.m.

Three members of the Chicago-based Songs for Ceasefire are now performing on the main stage.

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

DAY 4 – 1:39 p.m.

Some Jewish students have been sharing an Instagram post from Jewish on Campus, an account with more than 65,000 followers, that condemns a sign found at Northwestern’s pro-Palestine encampment. The sign depicts a Star of David with a red line crossing through it.

“This isn’t a criticism of government policy,” the post reads. “This isn’t a call for justice. It’s antisemitism, loud and clear.”

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 4 – 1:30 p.m.

A student organizer hosted a workshop on the main stage on how to protect one’s personal identity from doxxing. A string of speeches followed the workshop.

Dave, an Evanston community member, said he has been at the encampment since Thursday morning.

“This is going down in history in Evanston. There’s no way around it,” Dave said.

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

DAY 4 – 12:50 p.m.

The majority of the counterprotesters have dispersed. About two dozen remain, with a small group davening on the plaza near Deering Library.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 4 – 12:20 p.m.

Counterprotesters say the gathering was planned in a grassroots method, rather than through formal channels or social media. They say they will be here each Sunday the encampment continues.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 4 – 12:17 p.m.

The crowd of counterprotesters has moved back to the plaza near Deering Meadow at the request 0f University Police. They are currently singing the Israeli and American national anthem as encampment demonstrators, still linked in a human chain on the Meadow, chant: “Down, down, with occupation. Up, up with liberation.”

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 4 – 12:07 p.m.

There are about seven NUPD officers, including Chief of Police Bruce Lewis, standing between encampment demonstrators and pro-Israel counter-protesters and trying to de-escalate the situation. Most counter-protesters are currently retreating from the lawn.

NU Hillel’s Executive Director Michael Simon is also at the scene. Earlier, representatives for NU Hillel said they are unaffiliated with the event.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 4 – 11:31 a.m.

Representatives for Northwestern Hillel and Wildcats for Israel say they are unaffiliated with the event. The crowd has swelled to over 100 counterprotesters, who have moved onto the lawn with Israeli flags and chants of “Bring them home.” Demonstrators have formed a human chain and are responding with chants of “Free, free Palestine.”

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 4 – 11:19 a.m.

There are now about 50 counterprotesters at Deering Meadow. They are chanting “bring them home.”

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 4 – 10:55 a.m.

About a dozen counterprotesters are at the Jacobs Center with Israeli flags.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 4 – 10:41 a.m.

University Police officers are currently setting up metal bike racks along the north end of the Meadow for “crowd control.”

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 4 – 10:06 a.m.

Rev. Julie Windsor Mitchell with the University Christian Ministry at Northwestern began leading a church service with communion.

— Aviva Bechky, Senior Staffer

DAY 4 – 8:10 a.m.

It has been more than 73 hours after the encampment began. Deering Meadow remains largely quiet.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 3 – 2:21 a.m.

According to an image obtained by The Daily, the spray paint appears to have said “Free Palestine” and “Death 2 Israel.” It remains unclear who is responsible for the graffiti, but organizers say all their demonstrators are accounted for.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 2:17 a.m.

The message has been painted over.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 2:10 a.m.

Northwestern Facilities is currently painting over the spray painted area on the Jacobs Center. It’s unclear what the message represented.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 1:12 a.m.

An officer on scene said no one was arrested.

“Someone defaced our property,” the officer said.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 1:10 a.m.

NUPD declined to comment, saying it is an active investigation.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 12:45 a.m.

Three University police cars are on site by the Jacobs Center. The current situation is unclear.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 10:41 p.m.

Organizers just had a conversation with community safety officers. The organizers asked CSOs if they would be comfortable posting an officer at the fence to ensure nobody puts up signs overnight.

The CSOs said they were under orders to remain at the border between Jacobs Center and Deering Library, but asked that the protesters come and ask the CSOs for help if there was a problem during the night. The CSOs added they were here to protect the community.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 10:11 p.m.

Organizers told the crowd to prepare for heavy rain. They also encouraged all non-NU affiliates to go home “for the security of the encampment” and told protesters not to pitch any new tents.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 10:10 p.m.

There is a dabke workshop being held by an NU alum. It is one of the last events of the night.

— Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffer

DAY 3 – 9:45 p.m.

Pritzker student Yasmeen Elagha is speaking. In December, Elagha filed a lawsuit against the State Department for failing to provide the same protection to Americans trapped in Gaza that it has to Americans in Israel — an issue of equal protection, she told The Daily in February.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 8:59 p.m.

“Divesting from this tyranny and oppression is the only way to rid our collective complicity with the death and destruction and the absolute carnage that has been wrecked upon our innocent brothers and sisters in Gaza and across the West Bank as we speak today,” Nashashibi said.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 8:53 p.m.

“I ask and I plead with each of you to be attentive too. As they say in the hip-hop generation, ‘keep your third eye open,'” Nashashibi said. “If there’s any one of you that hears anybody articulate anything inconsistent with the larger message of love and liberation — shut that s— down.”

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 8:51 p.m.

“You are the voice of consciousness that will be administration on campuses and across the country,” Palestinian American community organizer and activist Rami Nashashibi told the crowd.

“You are the voice of world consciousness that each and everyone of us know that is absolutely critical,” Nashashibi added. “Not only to grow vibrant democracy, but it’s absolutely critical for a vibrant humanity.”

— Jacob Wendler and Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffers

DAY 3 – 7:48 p.m.

Prayer will begin at 8 p.m. on the northeast corner of Deering Meadow.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 7:42 p.m.

“We’ve won already in many, many ways,” an organizer said in a speech. “Look around, there are no police here. We’ve been able to maintain this space on our terms, understanding the primary goal is pushing for our demands.”

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 7:28 p.m.

A nurse told The Daily that she has given out Band-Aids, masks and hand sanitizer. She added that there have not been any medical emergencies and that the encampment remains overstocked.

— Jake Epstein and Samanta Habashy, Senior Staffers

DAY 3 – 7:24 p.m.

Organizers have made lines using spray paint to demarcate where they want tents situated.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 7:15 p.m.

The ceremony has concluded. The speaker spoke of a “world to come” in which “a free Palestine from the river to the sea” will exist. The speaker has requested demonstrators leave water cases behind if they are leaving the encampment, though he does not advise departing.

A long line of about 50 demonstrators are waiting for food.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 7:02 p.m.

Jewish Voice for Peace are leading an observance of Havdalah, marking the symbolic end of Shabbat. The group called for a permanent ceasefire and “a life free of occupation.”

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 6:46 p.m.

As a violin is played, chants of “free, free, free Palestine” break out in the background. The performance is part of Arab Expressions, an annual event by the Middle Eastern North African Student Association that was moved to the encampment Saturday evening.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 6:02 p.m.

Cultural performances will take place throughout the night, starting with The Okahomma Singers.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 3 – 4:49 p.m.

An organizer urged demonstrators to not take “escalating” actions like spray painting property because negotiations between divestment advocates and NU administrators are “in a good spot,” they said.

The organizer also asked demonstrators to not set up any additional tents for the time being.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 3 – 4:35 p.m.

Faculty Senate president Regan Thomson told The Daily that University President Michael Schill and Provost Kathleen Hagerty consulted with the Senate’s executive committee and standing committee chairs.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 4:27 p.m.

After a counterprotester tried to push his bike through demonstrators crowded around him as he was guided out of the encampment, a Student Affairs staff member asked him to stay off the Deering Meadow grass and not engage with protesters. His shirt was ripped as he left the lawn.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 3 – 3:33 p.m.

Nearly 58 hours after the encampment began, organizers are asking that all those with tents stand by them as they reorganize the camp.

The reorganization comes as activity on Deering Meadow is relatively calm. Many protesters are on blankets, eating food, reading books, on their laptops or conversing with other protesters. Speakers have been sprinkled throughout the past few hours, and at times the crowd has chanted.

On the sidewalk on Sheridan Road, protesters are chanting more consistently, and cheering when cars driving by honk their horns.

— Davis Giangiulio, Senior Staffer

DAY 3 – 2:52 p.m.

Josh Honn, the Humanities & Prison Education Librarian, is giving a speech discussing the impact of Israel’s ground and air offensive in Gaza’s damage to Palestinian education and literature.

At the beginning of his speech, Honn referred to early Thursday morning, when University President Michael Schill sent an email to the NU community incorrectly stating the encampment had been dispersed.

“It’s 2024, Schill. We all have phones and cameras. The encampment was still here and it is still here,” he said to cheers.

— Davis Giangiulio, Senior Staffer

DAY 3 – 2:18 p.m.

Flyers advertising a march on the Democratic National Convention are being offered to those sitting on blankets adjacent to the tents in the encampment. The flyers read “Stand with Palestine, end U.S. aid to Israel.”

The DNC, where President Joe Biden will accept the Democratic Party’s nomination for president, will be held in Chicago in August.

— Davis Giangiulio, Senior Staffer

DAY 3 – 1:53 p.m.

University spokesperson Jon Yates confirmed that the Luna Security guards onsite at the encampment were hired by NU.

“Security personnel are on site for the safety of the entire Northwestern community,” Yates wrote in a statement to The Daily.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 1:14 p.m.

Medill Prof. Steven Thrasher is currently speaking to demonstrators. Thrasher has attended each day of the encampment and also visited Columbia University’s demonstrations last week.

“My friends, you have not just said this is not just, but have put your bodies on the line,” Thrasher told the crowd. “You will not stop and not rest until the University meets your demands.”

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 3 – 12:56 p.m.

A media liaison says there are no current plans to meet with administration over the weekend. The liaison is encouraging students belonging to clubs and organizations to discuss progress made with other members.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 3 – 12:21 p.m.

The counterprotester is showing the officers photos she took from within the encampment and telling them that she was surrounded.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 3 – 12:16 p.m.

The counterprotester left Deering Meadow. She is now talking to two University Police officers by the Jacobs Center.

— Jake Epstein and Pavan Acharya, Senior Staffers

DAY 3 – 12:12 p.m.

The counterprotester, who said she is a Jewish parent, has called for help as she said she has been “surrounded.” Organizers told her that she is not surrounded and is not in harm’s way.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 11:59 a.m.

A counterprotester is walking around taking pictures of demonstrators. She has been approached by two protest marshals.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 11:52 a.m.

Those with cars parked on Sheridan Road have been asked to move them as the encampment “cannot afford police attention.”

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 11:46 a.m.

Demonstrators have hung up a purple banner with phrases like “Palestinian Liberation” on it, but it is blowing away.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 11:00 a.m.

More than a dozen demonstrators are listening to Socialist Equality Party Presidential Candidate Joseph Kishore admonish both major political parties in the U.S.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 10:40 a.m.

Protesters are currently cleaning up rain-damaged posters and ones which have been detached from fence poles that are littered on the ground.

— Lexi Goldstein, Audience Engagement Editor

DAY 3 – 10:19 a.m.

Protesters are continuing to dry out tarps and set up for the day ahead. Although around 100 tents still stand, some are empty. A protest marshal said one of today’s goals is to clean up Deering Meadow.

— Lexi Goldstein, Audience Engagement Editor

DAY 3 – 9:35 a.m.

Evanston Police are partially obstructing traffic on Sheridan Road near The Arch to facilitate the Lakeshore Shuffle 5k Run & Walk. The police presence appears unrelated to the encampment.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 3 – 9:30 a.m.

A protest marshal announced over the speaker that breakfast is being served. Demonstrators are beginning to wake up and emerge from their tents.

— Nicole Markus and Lexi Goldstein, Senior Staffers

DAY 3 – 9:28 a.m.

The individual appears to have left.

— Nicole Markus and Lexi Goldstein, Senior Staffers

DAY 3 – 9:27 a.m.

The confrontation with the counterprotester is ongoing as protest marshals attempt to escort him out.

“Don’t f—k with my society. Don’t f—k with the people who live here,” he said. “Israelis are Semitic. Ashkenazi Jews may have white skin, but they’re also semitic. Arabs are also semitic. It’s okay to support white people. You’ve been brainwashed to believe it’s not okay to support white people.”

The individual entered the encampment yesterday and was seen yelling at protesters by The Arch on Monday.

— Nicole Markus and Lexi Goldstein, Senior Staffers

DAY 3 – 9:16 a.m.

A counterprotester is ripping down signs from the Deering Meadow fence. A protest marshal from the NU Divestment Coalition is attempting to de-escalate the situation.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 8:12 a.m.

An individual just removed several signs from the fence separating Deering Meadow and Sheridan Road and ran off. Meanwhile, organizers are attempting to reconstruct a handful of tents that have been taken down by wind.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 3 – 7:00 a.m.

It has been 48 hours since the student activists began setting up tents on Deering Meadow Thursday morning.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 6:43 a.m.

After heavy rain earlier in the morning, organizers are making a walkway out of tarps from the encampment to the exit onto Sheridan Road near the Jacobs Center.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 5:40 a.m.

The sun is beginning to rise. This will be the third day of the encampment.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 3:45 a.m.

There is heavy rain on Deering Meadow, following loud roars of thunder and intermittent bursts of lightning. The encampment remains mostly quiet.

— Saul Pink, Senior Staffer

DAY 2 – 2:47 a.m.

The University Police officer is driving away from the scene after speaking with protesters.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 2:43 a.m.

An University Police officer — not the one who was on the scene 30 minutes prior — pulled up and spoke briefly with the Luna Security Services guard by Deering Meadow. The officer then walked up to the encampment and asked a small group of organizers not to approach the Luna guard in an “aggressive” manner again, adding that “that behavior is not in everyone’s best interest.”

Six protesters spoke calmly with the University Police officer, saying they were concerned because the Luna guard was in an unmarked vehicle. The officer encouraged them to call UP with similar concerns going forward.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 2:10 a.m.

The University Police officer and two Luna Security Services officers have left. The first Luna guard to arrive on the scene is still present and sitting in his vehicle.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 2:02 a.m.

An University Police officer arrived with another Luna Security Services official and spoke with the two Luna officials already present. About 12 members of the encampment have returned to speak with the Luna guards as well. “We work for Northwestern,” the newly arrived Luna guard just said, telling protesters they were there to make them “feel safe.”

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 1:55 a.m.

The Luna Security Services guards returned to their vehicles. Demonstrators are walking back to the camp.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Samantha Powers, Daily Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 1:51 a.m.

A Luna Security Services guard is on the scene. A small group of protesters confronted him. The guard stepped out of the car briefly, but appears to have gotten back in. When protesters asked what he was doing there, he responded, “Don’t worry about it.”

A second Luna security guard has since arrived as well. In response to protesters’ questions, he said that the guards were hired by a third party rather than Northwestern University. Luna is a third-party security service often contracted by student organizations for contentious or crowded events.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Samantha Powers, Daily Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 12:48 a.m.

Demonstrators are using zipties on the posters lining Deering Meadow for wind resistance.

One canopy tent has fully tipped over. Protesters rushed to put it back up.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 12:42 a.m.

Protesters are putting tarps over the posters lining Deering Meadow as light rain continues.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 12:14 a.m.

The protest is into its forty-first hour. Strong winds are blowing some of the encampment’s tarps and tents up.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Pavan Acharya, Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 11:56 p.m.

Three counterprotesters are walking outside the encampment. One is wearing an Israeli flag on their back like a cape.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 11:49 p.m.

An organizer just announced that three individuals who entered the encampment were recording those dancing and chanting without their consent. The individuals who were recording were escorted out while demonstrators chanted “shame on you,” “settlers, settlers go back home” and “we don’t want no Zionists here.”

The three individuals are not believed to be encampment supporters.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 11:23 p.m.

A group of around 100 demonstrators have gathered in a circle on the east side of the encampment, chanting: “Settlers, settlers go back home. Palestine is ours alone.” One demonstrator is waving a Palestinian flag above the crowd.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 10:46 p.m.

On the sidewalk and biker’s lane below the encampment’s large Palestinian flag, dozens of demonstrators are gathered by Sheridan Road with pro-Palestinian signs and flags. Cars passing by are honking in support.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 10:22 p.m.

Medill Prof. Steven Thrasher said drummers outside the encampment had a can thrown at them. He encouraged demonstrators to come out and support them.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 10:20 p.m.

“We won a huge f— battle today,” NU Divestment Coalition representative Josh said. According to the organizer, no arrests and suspensions will be made tonight. “We won the battle, we have a war later.”

— William Tong and Pavan Acharya, Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 9:46 p.m.

Nicole Lombardi, a demonstrator from Oak Park, read a letter expressing support for the encampment on behalf of Black alumni who participated in the 1968 Bursar’s Office Takeover. You can read the letter here.

— William Tong and Pavan Acharya, Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 8:27 p.m.

Eye to Eye — a poetry collective started by students of color and inspired by feminist poet Audre Lorde — is currently hosting a poetry open mic on Deering Meadow.

— Aviva Bechky, Senior Staffer

DAY 2 – 7:48 p.m.

Members of Jewish Voices for Peace at Northwestern are currently leading a Shabbat service. Demonstrators are singing along to a Jewish hymn.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 7:43 p.m.

Negotiations for today have ended, an organizer said. “They went amazingly,” they said.

“We’re getting our freaking demands met,” another organizer said.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 7:40 p.m.

Organizers began tonight’s sunset ritual by asking all demonstrators to participate in a moment of silence.“This vigil is our way of holding space for our grief and anger for this genocide,” one organizer said. A Shabbat is set to follow.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 7:26 p.m.

Organizers have set up an “Art Tent” made up of about 10 canopy tents. Some demonstrators are painting messages on paper and cardboard, including: “NU Jews Demand Divestment,” “Let the Revolution Bloom” and “Protect Olive Trees, Stop Genocide.”

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 6:57 p.m.

Organizers announced that demonstrators are welcome to start working on a banner that will read “Welcome to the Liberated Meadows” when complete.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 6:50 p.m.

Organizers said the coalition remains in negotiations.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 6:47 p.m.

As of 6:47 p.m. Friday, the Northwestern People’s Resolution has over 2,600 signatures.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 6:28 p.m.

The drum, dance and rhythm group Boomshaka is currently performing within the encampment. Organizers plan to host several student performances throughout the weekend. They are drumming along as demonstrators chant: “Up, up with liberation, down, down with occupation” and “free, free, free Palestine.”

— Pavan Acharya and Jake Epstein, Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 6:19 p.m.

Demonstrators are expanding the encampment to the east side of Deering Meadow. They are setting up twelve new canopy tents.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 5:59 p.m.

Organizers announce their Venmo and Go Fund Me are down. The Northwestern Divestment Coalition asks people to pause all donations to the fund and to donate directly to groups providing aid in Gaza. Donations of waterproof clothes are still being accepted, organizers said.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 5:34 p.m.

Demonstrators begin lifting tarps off of signage as the rain subsides.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 5:15 p.m.

Two demonstrators are building a barricade out of wood planks on the north side of Deering Lawn. They said they hope the barricade, which is about 8 feet wide, can potentially hold off police.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 4:43 p.m.

An organizer told the crowd gathered on Deering Meadow that administrators and organizers are still in conversation. “Admin is coming to its knees,” they said.

— Lexi Goldstein, Audience Engagement Editor

DAY 2 – 4:17 p.m.

Around 130 tents are currently pitched on Deering Meadow, many of which are inhabited by protesters sheltering from continued rainfall.

— Lexi Goldstein, Audience Engagement Editor

DAY 2 – 4:02 p.m.

There are three University Police officers on scene by the Jacobs Center. The officers declined to comment on the purpose of their presence by the Meadow.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 4:00 p.m.

A protester is now explaining the history of the Palestinian flag. Dozens of protesters are under newly-pitched tents listening.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 3:54 p.m.

University spokesperson Jon Yates said the University remains “in active discussions with the demonstrators to ensure the safety of members of the Northwestern community while also providing a space for free expression.” He did not comment on specific negotiations or any possible deadline for demonstrators to remove tents or leave before police action is taken.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

DAY 2 – 3:33 p.m.

Summer, an organizer who did not share a last name, said there is a bargaining meeting happening now. “We’re the talk of the goddamn town,” Summer said. “Admin thinks the rain is going to clear us out,” Summer said. Protesters responded in unison: “No.”

— Beatrice Villaflor and Lexi Goldstein, Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 3:29 p.m.

Organizers are asking those who are willing to stand on the side of the road to hold up signs and “make noise.”

“We need y’all to stay here in a way that’s sustainable, because guess what y’all?” organizer said. “We’re staying here all night.”

— Beatrice Villaflor and Lexi Goldstein, Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 3:13 p.m.

There are about nine counterprotesters gathered holding Israeli flags, one draped in the American flag. Counterprotesters are standing by the west Jacobs Center entrance to Deering Meadow.

Encampment demonstrators are once again forming a line in front of them, with their backs to the counterprotesters. One counterprotester said the group came from an event on Plex Lawn organized by Northwestern Hillel and NU Chabad.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 2 – 2:57 p.m.

The NU Divestment Coalition posted an open call earlier in the afternoon for student groups to set up programming and performances at the encampment. Event organizers are expecting a poetry open mic Friday night and hoping for dance performances, media liaison Mayan said.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 2 – 2:53 p.m.

There are just over 100 sleeping tents on Deering Meadow, with more currently being pitched.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 2:49 p.m.

There are about 50 people at the NU Hillel and NU Chabad event.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 2:38 p.m.

As the drizzle turns into a downpour, event organizers asked demonstrators on Deering Lawn to take shelter within tents or help build new ones.There are currently over 100 sleeping tents set up on the lawn.

— Pavan Acharya, In Focus Editor

DAY 2 – 2:37 p.m.

Northwestern Hillel and NU Chabad are on the Foster-Walker lawn despite the rain for a community gathering “to sing songs of peace and hope.”

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 1:58 p.m.

Organizers are asking demonstrators to stay at the encampment even if it is raining. They are handing out ponchos and umbrellas. Currently, rain is forecasted for the remainder of the afternoon.

— William Tong, City Editor

DAY 2 – 1:26 p.m.

Imam Omar Suleiman is addressing the crowd. “We will stay here until the pain goes away,” he said.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 1:03 p.m.

About 200 protesters are gathering to pray at the east corner of Deering Meadow.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Nicole Markus, Senior Staffers

DAY 2 – 12:55 p.m.

Protesters are preparing for rain. An organizer said NU alumni have approached her to pay for “big ticket items” and “whatever (demonstrators) need.” The organizer said tarps and ponchos will be distributed to protestors staying during inclement weather.

Organizers have told protestors to direct any media inquiries to protest marshals as the coalition has media liaisons.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 12:48 p.m.

Protestors are chanting and clapping.

“We’re not tired, we’re not stopping while Israeli bombs are dropping.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 12:45 p.m.

A counterprotestor left the center of the encampment and approached a group of onlookers wrapped in the Israeli flag. A group of protestors formed a line in front of the counterprotesters gathered with the Israeli flag.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor and Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 12:44 p.m.

Nearing the 31st hour of the encampment at Deering Meadow, the number of tents has remained consistent. Many are now unmasked within the encampment, which is centered around several large tents, where demonstrators can take what they need. There are tents for art-making, medical supplies, food, and audiovisual equipment storage.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 12:39 p.m.

Northwestern Divestment Coalition has set up a GoFundMe to fundraise for “food, supplies, legal aid” and other resources for protesters at the encampment. As of Friday afternoon, the organization has raised nearly $8,000.

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 12:30 p.m.

The counterprotester is currently sitting on the encampment’s main stage. Protesters are not currently engaging with the man, who said he is sitting onstage “to learn,” and are letting him remain on the stage. Marshals are supervising the scene. The current speaker is reading a report on apartheid South Africa.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 12:25 p.m.

A counterprotester was heckling a current speaker. There was an aggressive encounter — with pushing and expletives — between him and a protester.

A protest marshal told nearby protesters, “What’s the name of the game?” To which they replied, “de-escalate.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 12:15 p.m.

Two Evanston Fire Department vehicles are now parked near Deering Meadow. Two University Police officers told The Daily that they are here for a “medical emergency.”

“It has nothing to do with the protest,” one officer said.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

DAY 2 – 9:16 a.m.

No update on potential police presence today. Although University Police was expected to show by 6 a.m., according to organizers, little to no police presence at the encampment has been seen so far this morning. An organizer serving as the protest-police liaison told The Daily there is no information about future arrests or future police presence. The liaison said there have been no arrests or citations.

— Aviva Bechky, Senior Staffer

DAY 2 – 9:16 a.m.

Chanting has started up for the day: various cheers and “Free Free Palestine” and “protect student rights” heard from the protesters. Protesters are also forming a line around the encampment.

— Aviva Bechky, Senior Staffer

DAY 2 – 8:38 a.m.

A University Police car was seen driving by on the sidewalk in front of Deering Library, but soon left.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 8:02 a.m.

Protesters have been in an arrest training for 30 minutes, and they are currently practicing what to do if they get into physical confrontations with police.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 7:21 a.m.

Organizers said they will host an arrest training with protesters soon.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

DAY 2 – 7:00 a.m.

It has now been 24 hours since the encampment began. An organizer congratulated protesters on making it through the first day and told them to make a barricade around the tents if police arrive.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

6:31 a.m.

Luna Security, a private firm typically contracted for Dillo Day and political events on campus, has arrived on the scene.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

6:00 a.m.

Organizers said they haven’t heard anything new. Police were expected to arrive now, but all is quiet.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

5:20 a.m.

A University Police car can be seen driving south on Sheridan Road past Deering Meadow.

— Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffer

5:10 a.m.

The birds are chirping and protesters who spent the night are beginning to wake up. Someone is singing the Adhan, or the Muslim call to prayer, and about a dozen people have joined in morning prayer. It’s less an hour until police are expected to arrive, according to the NU Divestment Coalition.

— Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffer

4:14 a.m.

A final University Police car that had been stationed in Deering Meadow’s northeast corner periodically since Thursday morning has left the lawn.

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

1:56 a.m.

Someone from NU Facilities said the sprinklers have been turned off for the rest of the night.

Engineers followed instructions to turn off sprinklers, a University Police officer told The Daily. It’s not guaranteed that they won’t come back on later, the officer said.

— William Tong, City Editor

1:51 a.m.

Demonstrators are moving their tents. There are four police cars by Deering Meadow. One is by the Jacobs Center with another trailing behind, and the two are by Deering Library.

— William Tong, City Editor

1:49 a.m.

Sprinklers are hitting the current encampment site. Organizers are waking up those who are camping and are planning to move to already-sprinkled areas.

— William Tong, City Editor

1:31 a.m.

Protesters are slowly waking up and beginning to move their speakers.

— William Tong, City Editor

1:20 a.m.

The Northwestern Divestment Coalition posts on Instagram asking protesters to come to the encampment at sunrise. The Coalition says police are expected to show up around 6 a.m.

– Avani Kalra, Daily Senior Staffer

1:25 a.m.

A member of University Police asked for an organizer. The pair discussed the sprinkler heads that are currently dampening the Meadow. The organizer asked if the sprinklers could be powered off in order to minimize student endangerment. Police said not to interfere with the sprinkler heads as they are expensive.

— William Tong, City Editor

1:04 a.m.

The sprinklers on Deering Meadow are still going, and are likely to hit the encampment’s tents within the next hour.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

12:39 a.m.

The protesters have finished their last piece of programming for the night. Most are going to bed.

— William Tong, City Editor

12:30 a.m.

At about 11:40 p.m., there were about 50 tents pitched on the Meadow. Now, there are more than 80.

— William Tong, City Editor

12:18 a.m.

The demonstrators are ending their night with a reading from the Quran.

— William Tong, City Editor

12:17 a.m.

Organizer said they anticipate police to arrive on the scene at 5 or 5:30 a.m. They do not anticipate police to come to the Meadow overnight.

“This is a bed time call,” the organizer said.

— William Tong, City Editor

12:09 a.m.

The University Police squad car which has been stationed at the corner of the Jacobs Center has vacated the premises. The sprinklers on the east side of the Meadow have been turned on.

— William Tong, City Editor

12:05 a.m.

It’s Friday. The protest is into its 18th hour. Several hundred demonstrators remain to spend the night on Deering Meadow.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Jake Epstein, Senior Staffers

11:50 p.m.

In a new statement posted to Instagram, NU Divestment Coalition and NU Jewish Voice for Peace “urge Northwestern administrators to call off University Police in order to de-escalate and heed the call of the students.” Currently, there’s no indication of imminent police escalation on the Meadow.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

11:33 p.m.

Organizers are asking protesters to stop smoking marijuana on the Meadow.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

11:03 p.m.

Several student organizations have signed onto the People’s Resolution, which currently has more than 2,300 signatories.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

10:59 p.m.

Wildcats for Israel released a statement regarding the Associated Student Government Senate’s vote to pass the People’s Resolution. The organization said it is “deeply saddened” by what it calls “an attempt to unfairly single out Israel, alienate Jewish students, and further intensify the hostile and polarized campus climate.”

— Beatrice Villaflor and Samantha Powers, Senior Staffers

10:45 p.m.

One Evanston Police Department vehicle just drove north on Sheridan Road by Deering Meadow.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

10:38 p.m.

The University released a statement on the demonstration Thursday night. The statement said the encampment is in violation of University policy. The update also confirms that NU administration met with protesters throughout the day, including the two-hour meeting which organizers referred to earlier in the evening.

The University said it offered to let protesters continue their assembly if use of bullhorns, speakers and tents ceased. Demonstrators declined the offer.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

10:20 p.m.

A spokesperson for University Police told The Daily that they are “playing it by ear.”

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

10:11 p.m.

After receiving updates, organizers said they don’t believe police are arriving on the scene tonight. They said they plan to spend the night on Deering Meadow.

— Jake Epstein, Print Managing Editor

10:04 p.m.

“We are not going to let anyone get mistreated by the police, and we’re going to document everything,” an organizer said. “We’re going to throw everything up on social media. … People will be back tomorrow, and back for another until this is done and our demands are met.”

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

9:57 p.m.

“They actually, literally, cannot arrest all of us,” an organizer said.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

9:55 p.m.

Students are split into groups based on the level of risk they are willing to engage in. Some students are willing to be arrested, while others are only willing to be suspended. Organizers are telling “low-risk” students to prepare to be suspended.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

9:51 p.m.

“When the police show up, we are going to be ready,” an organizer said.

Organizers are encouraging non-students to form a barrier around students when police arrive. They also instructed protesters who don’t want to be arrested to disperse when told to do so by University Police.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

9:48 p.m.

“No matter what happens tonight, we will be back tomorrow,” protesters began chanting.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

9:43 p.m.

An organizer reiterated to the crowd the protesters’ three demands for NU: to protect students’ rights, to stop “propagandizing genocide,” and to disclose its investments and divest from Israeli companies and institutions.

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

9:25 p.m.

They are encouraging protesters, regardless of commitment level, to write the Cook County Public Defender’s number on their wrists.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:22 p.m.

A Jewish senior and organizer said protesters are not leaving Deering until every single one of their demands is met.

“(Administrators) were not prepared to give us an answer, but that’s okay, because we’re not prepared to leave,” she said.

— William Tong, City Editor

9:21 p.m.

Police are on their way, an organizer said.

— William Tong and Beatrice Villaflor, Senior Staffers

9:12 p.m.

A representative of Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine is here to support demonstrators and announced the organization will stage a protest in Evanston on Saturday.

— William Tong, City Editor

9:04 p.m.

Though organizers said protesters risked arrest by staying on the Meadow, few are leaving.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:55 p.m.

Student organizers say there is a threat of possible arrests in the next two hours if the crowd does not disperse.

The organizers said Schill said protesters would be given two warnings before sending in the University Police. If the crowd does not disperse after these warnings, protesters will face arrests. At that point, organizers said those who are not willing or able to be arrested should leave the encampment.

— Beatrice Villaflor and William Tong, Senior Staffers

8:51 p.m.

Organizers told the crowd that they just left a meeting with University President Michael Schill, Provost Kathleen Hagerty and Vice President of Student Affairs Susan Davis.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:44 p.m.

The rally scheduled for 8 p.m. has begun.

— William Tong, City Editor

8:35 p.m.

“We’re just supporting Israel — just like you’re supporting Palestine,” one person in the group told the demonstrators.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:35 p.m.

Protest marshals and other demonstrators are currently observing a group of three individuals projecting the Star of David and discussing amongst themselves.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:32 p.m.

A Star of David is currently being projected onto the west facade of the Jacobs Center. The interim addendum to the Code of Conduct authorized by University President Michael Schill explicitly states that “only authorized University officials are permitted to alter or project light onto University buildings or property.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:30 p.m.

Jewish demonstrators led the seder, with some changes.

“We generally break the matzah and put it in a piece of cloth and hide it in the afikoman,” a demonstrator said. “Tonight, we are putting it in a keffiyeh in celebration of the unity between Palestinians and Jews across the world.”

— William Tong, City Editor

7:54 p.m.

As the sun sets, organizers of Thursday’s encampment are hosting a seder in commemoration of Passover, a holiday that one organizer said represented freedom from enslavement.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

7:44 p.m.

A protest marshal told the crowd that non-NU affiliates must vacate the premises during the night for their safety.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

7:39 p.m.

Mendes’ speech ended with a round of chants of “free free Palestine” and “in our lifetime.”

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

7:20 p.m.

More than 300 protesters remain at the encampment during Mendes’ speech.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

7:05 p.m.

Imam Adeyinka Mendes, the Muslim-cultural Students Association’s spring speaker, begun speaking just after 7 p.m. “This is completely unexpected,” Mendes said about Thursday’s encampment, which he says will change history. “I am here to serve you. I am here to inspire and be inspired by you.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

7:00 p.m.

The protest has now been ongoing for 12 hours.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

6:48 p.m.

The counterprotester remains on Deering Meadow, and “protest marshals” with the NU Divestment Coalition are monitoring him.

— Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffer

6:43 p.m.

Jewish Voice for Peace at NU posted 10 minutes ago encouraging community members to email and call the Board of Trustees and demand they protect the encampment and listen to student demands. The post originated with Chicago Dissenters and AMP Chicago.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

6:41 p.m.

Organizers are setting up a medical tent with basic hygiene supplies, first aid kits, COVID-19 tests and face masks among other supplies.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

6:38 p.m.

An organizer told The Daily the counterprotester came onto Deering Meadow with another person and started recording people. According to multiple sources on the scene, the counterprotester instigated a physical altercation with a student. After that, the “protest marshals” for the NU Divestment Coalition came in and de-escalated the situation, the same organizer said.

— Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffer

6:35 p.m.

“This is our home for the — hopefully — forseeable future,” an organizer said before encouraging demonstrators to pick up three pieces of litter from the space around them.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

6:24 p.m.

The altercation seems to have ended. “Say it loud, say it clear, we don’t want no racist here,” protesters chant. The counterprotester appears to be ignoring protesters’ calls for him to leave.

— Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffer

6:22 p.m.

A physical altercation has broken out on the east side of Deering Meadow. Protesters are surrounding a counterprotester and chanting “racists go home.”

— Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffer

6:06 p.m.

Protesters are preparing for the possibility of arrests.

“We are non-confrontational, and we are emphasizing peaceful protests,” an organizer said. “If you do not want to get arrested: if there is police presence that is conducting arrests, walk away.”

For those who are comfortable being arrested, the same organizer outlined what protesters should do when approached by police.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

5:23 p.m.

A counterprotester arrived at Deering Meadow and is shouting “stop supporting terrorism on campus, stop supporting Hamas.”

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

5:21 p.m.

More tents are going up inside the encampment. Around 40 tents are standing now.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

5:14 p.m.

An organizer called for faculty to come give mini lectures on the history of Palestine, saying “none of us got to go to class today.”

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

5:07 p.m.

An organizer is asking protesters to invite friends and keep up numbers.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

4:24 p.m.

Organizers have set up an open mic just behind the encampment. The first two speakers are Seth and Molly, representatives from Jewish Voice for Peace Chicago. They discussed the connection between Passover, a Jewish holiday that began Monday, and the connection between Judaism and freedom. The pair — who declined to share their surnames — urged U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Evanston) to call for a ceasefire, and condemned her vote on a bill to send aid to Israel on Wednesday.

— Avani Kalra, Senior Staffer

4:20 p.m.

Jewish Voice for Peace organizers said they are proud to be here during Passover and are motivated to be here by their Jewish faith.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

4:15 p.m.

Organizers are calling on University President Michael Schill to prevent students and organizers from being arrested.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

4:10 p.m.

Protester numbers have dwindled slightly and sit at around 200.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

3:27 p.m.

Protesters are taking a minute of silence for those killed in Gaza.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

3:08 p.m.

People’s Resolution now has over 2,100 signatures.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

2:55 p.m.

There are currently about 300 protesters on Deering Meadow.

“When we say ‘from the river to the sea,’ we’re talking about a land where you don’t have to get harassed. You don’t have to go through checkpoints to get to school,” an organizer said. “Michael Schill implied that by saying (‘from the river to the sea’), we’re supporting terrorism, but we’re not going to let people tell us to shut up, because we know what we’re fighting for.”

The organizer also said they are fighting for the return of a country where everyone can be free and equal, including Muslims, Jews, Christians and atheists.

Another organizer said they want to continue the encampment for days to come and stay on the Meadow overnight.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

2:50 p.m.

Protesters are chanting: “Long live the Intifada.”

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

2:48 p.m.

A man at the microphone asked protesters to cheer if they want NU to meet certain demands, including a condemnation of Israel’s violence in Gaza, University trustees to “tell us the truth” about NU’s investments, and for the University to divest from companies with connections to Israel. All three calls were met with loud cheers.

— Saul Pink, Senior Staffer

2:32 p.m.

After a few hours of quiet, protesters have begun chanting again. “Michael Schill you will see, Palestine will be free,” they chanted.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

2:11 p.m.

NU Divestment Coalition organizers said the tents are not associated with their encampment. The separated group declined to comment on their affiliation.

— Saul Pink, Senior Staffer

1:53 p.m.

Protesters have set up three tents in the corner of Deering Meadow, about 150 feet from the rest of the encampment. It appears as though the tents are not part of the encampment organized by NU organizations.

— Saul Pink, Senior Staffer

1:49 p.m.

The South Asian Students Alliance has announced that it is moving its Holi celebration on Saturday — originally scheduled to be held on Deering Meadow — to the Lakefill. In a statement to their Instagram, the organization said the change occurred as the group wants to emphasize the right to protest.

“Authority members have cited Holi as a reason for encampments at Deering to be cleared,” SASA’s statement reads. “We do not feel comfortable with our cultural event, founded on the principles of community and goodness, being used as a tool of leverage.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

1:43 p.m.

Someone is leading a group of protesters in a midday prayer on the north side of the Meadow. About 30 people joined in prayer following the adhan — the Muslim call to prayer.

— Saul Pink and Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffers

1:32 p.m.

University spokesperson Jon Yates told The Daily that no criminal citations have been issued as of 1 p.m.

“The University is in active discussions with the demonstrators to ensure the safety of members of the Northwestern community while also providing a space for free expression,” he said.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

1:18 p.m.

Members of the National Lawyers Guild, a national bar association, are present at the scene. One member told The Daily that they are acting as legal observers to monitor police; they also intend to help disseminate contact information in case protesters are arrested.

— Shannon Tyler, Senior Staffer

12:53 p.m.

Community Alliance for Better Government called for University Police to “cease physically violent attempts to disrupt” the encampment in a statement Thursday afternoon. The Evanston organization also demanded that Evanston Police Department not use the Northern Illinois Police Alarm System to prevent further protests. EPD previously brought in NIPAS Mobile Field Force officers to address student protests in November 2020.

— William Tong, City Editor

12:51 p.m.

Protesters have raised a large Palestinian flag between Deering Meadow and Sheridan Road. The flag stands at more than 20 feet tall.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

12:37 p.m.

Northwestern University Divestment Coalition, the group behind Thursday’s encampment, announced a rally at the Meadow for 8 p.m. “Show up to hold down our encampment,” the post reads.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

12:35 p.m.

Associated Student Government has announced its Organizing Grant on its Instagram, which provides funding for demonstration supplies, food and water.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

12:29 p.m.

More than 200 protesters remain at the encampment.

— Casey He and Samantha Powers, Senior Staffers

12:25 p.m.

The Muslim-cultural Students Association announced it is moving the location of its Thursday spring speaker event with Imam Adeyinka Mendes — originally set to take place on 555 Clark St. at 6:30 p.m. — to Deering Meadow.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

12:21 p.m.

Chief of Police and Senior Associate Vice President of Safety & Security Bruce Lewis told The Daily that University Police crew cars have left the scene so they can patrol other areas of campus and de-escalate the situation on Deering Meadow.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

12:20 p.m.

Three counterprotesters are standing to the side of Deering Meadow and holding an Israeli flag.

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

12:13 p.m.

The last police vehicle just left Deering Meadow after a row of three were parked for hours. Protesters cheered and clapped as the car drove away.

— Casey He and Samantha Powers, Senior Staffers

11:55 a.m.

Northwestern Hillel wrote in an email to its listserv that the encampment reflects “a disturbing and quickly escalating trend of antisemitic rhetoric and actions both nationally and on our own campus.” The organization, referencing the recent addendum to the University Code of Conduct, also said it is grateful that the University is committed to ensuring safety for all students.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

11:54 a.m.

A man wearing a shirt with “run for Israel” and the Star of David on it has been running laps around the encampment for over an hour. Two students are now trailing behind him.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

11:30 a.m.

Students have formed a dabke, a Palestinian traditional folk dance which combines circle dancing and line dancing, inside the encampment. Onlookers cheer them on as music plays from loudspeakers.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

11:24 a.m.

Protesters are bringing cases of water and other reinforcements into the encampment. Organizers are handing out refreshments under the main tent.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

11:12 a.m.

“EPD is monitoring the situation, but NUPD is directly handling the protest. If there have been arrests or citations issued, the EPD has not been involved. We can re-evaluate if circumstances change.” Evanston Police Department Commander Ryan Glew said in a statement to The Daily.

— Casey He, Print Managing Editor

11:01 a.m.

An organizer told protesters to remember to keep the line around the encampment intact by taking shifts.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

10:54 a.m.

University spokesperson Eliza Larson told The Daily that the University does not currently know what their response will be to the tents which continue to be on the Meadow.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

10:50 a.m.

Chief of Police and Senior Associate Vice President of Safety & Security Bruce Lewis confirmed the counterprotester is in the process of lodging a formal complaint for his stolen flags.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

10:49 a.m.

The man whose flags were taken by a protester told The Daily he’s in the process of filing a police report. He could be seen speaking with University Police officers on the scene. “I am honestly very upset the police aren’t going in there now to retrieve my personal property,” he said.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

10:39 a.m.

A protester stole the American flag from pro-Israel counterprotesters across the street from Deering Meadow. The counterprotester asked University Police to retrieve the flag from within the encampment.

— Samantha Powers, Casey He and Nicole Markus, Senior Staffers

10:36 a.m.

“This is not a test,” a faculty member said. “This is an exam of whether you are on the right side of things or on the wrong side of things.” The faculty member is questioning why police are on the scene.

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

10:20 a.m.

A small group of Evanston residents and parents have gathered outside the fence by Deering Meadow and are holding signs in support of the student protesters’ cause. Across the street from Deering Meadow, a pair of men are holding an American flag and a flag bearing the Star of David that bears the phrase, “I stand with Israel.”

— Samantha Powers, Print Managing Editor

10:07 a.m.

There are now more than 230 protesters, with people continuing to arrive. More than 20 tents are currently set up on Deering Meadow.

— Casey He and Samantha Powers, Senior Staffers

10:04 a.m.

University spokesperson Erin Karter told The Daily members of the non-NU student media have been moved outside the fence by Deering Meadow for safety purposes.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

10:02 a.m.

The line of protesters is encircling the whole encampment. Some observers on the Meadow are clapping for the chanting demonstrators.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:53 a.m.

Evanston Police say they are monitoring the situation but are not directly involved.

— Nicole Markus, Print Managing Editor

9:40 a.m.

“Occupation is a crime, from New York to Palestine,” protesters are chanting. “Fight for liberation.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:33 a.m.

There are now around 180 protesters who remain in front of the encampment. “Every time media lies, a neighborhood in Gaza dies,” protesters chant. “Israel bombs, U.S.A. pays — how many kids did you kill today?”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:29 a.m.

“Schill, Schill what do you say? How many kids have you killed today?” protesters chant.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:23 a.m.

University President Michael Schill sent out an email to the University which said demonstrators’ tents have been taken down.

“He said we’ve left. He said we’ve put our tents down. Is that true?” an organizer said to the crowd. Protesters replied “no” en masse.

At least 10 tents remain up on Deering Meadow.

Schill has also announced an interim addendum to the University’s demonstration policy.

“The addendum makes temporary changes to how protesters can engage on our Evanston campus, including at The Rock; and the rules governing chalkings, tents and other provisions,” he wrote in the email.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:15 a.m.

One protester is handing out snack bars to other protesters, who remain standing in a line.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:12 a.m.

“Hey hey, ho ho, Zionism has got to go,” protesters chant.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:04 a.m.

“Move, cops, get out of the way,” protesters chant.

Representatives from University Police said they are not commenting on whether arrests will happen at this time.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

9:02 a.m.

Around 140 protesters remain on Deering Meadow with locked arms. “The people, united, will never be defeated,” they chant. “Resistance is justified when people are occupied.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:58 a.m.

Spokespeople from the University’s Office of Global Marketing and Communications said non-NU student media are required to go outside the fence of Deering Meadow.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

8:56 a.m.

Protesters have locked arms. “Disclose, divest, we will not stop, we will not rest,” they chant.

“IDF, KKK, NUPD — all the same,” protesters chant.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:55 a.m.

A helicopter is hovering near Deering Meadow.

— Sonya Dymova, Digital Managing Editor

8:49 a.m.

Police are getting physically violent with faculty. “You will not touch our students,” a faculty member said.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Jacob Wendler, Senior Staffers

8:46 a.m.

It appears “red” protesters — a name designated by the group — are willing to be arrested.

“Arrests will be made for trespassing,” a University Police member announced. Cheers erupted from the protesters. Officers began moving in.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Jacob Wendler, Senior Staffers

8:45 a.m.

“The more you try to silence us, the louder we will be,” protesters are chanting to a drum beat.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:42 a.m.

Around 20 tents are now up again despite calls to disperse from University Police.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:40 a.m.

Protesters are participating in a series of chants:

“Hey hey. Ho ho. Israel has got to go.”

“From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.”

“No more money for Israel’s crimes.”

— Beatrice Villaflor and Jacob Wendler, Senior Staffers

8:39 a.m.

About a dozen tents that were previously taken down are now back up.

An organizer is telling protesters who are not willing to be arrested to gather on the fence outside Deering Meadow.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Jacob Wendler, Senior Staffers

8:34 a.m.

About half a dozen tents are now re-erected.

“Tents shall come down,” a member of University Police announced on a megaphone. “This is your final warning.”

Organizers told students they should disperse if they’re not willing to be arrested.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Jacob Wendler, Senior Staffers

8:30 a.m.

Protesters are chanting: “From Gaza to Kashmir, end the U.S. war machine.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:29 a.m.

Organizers are reassessing whether to roll up their tents and move them off the Meadow.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:25 a.m.

“Schill, Schill, you can’t hide. We charge you with genocide,” organizers chanted.

“The student body of Northwestern is demanding that the University divest from the genocide in Gaza,” one organizer said. “We know that our movement is for life.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:23 a.m.

All tents are down now.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:21 a.m.

Lewis told The Daily that criminal citations are not a “physical arrest,” but protesters will be directed to leave. He said he hopes physical arrests will not have to be made.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:19 a.m.

“It’s 8:15. Tents shall come down by 8:30,” a member of University Police said. If not, criminal citations will be given, he added.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:17 a.m.

University Police is lining up trucks on the east end of the Meadow.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

8:17 a.m.

Organizers are encouraging those at the encampment to promote @nudivestmentcoalition on Instagram.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:15 a.m.

“We want to do our best to comply with what (University Police) have told us to avoid getting criminal charges,” an organizer told The Daily. The organizer added that those who still have their tents up are willing to be forcibly removed by police.

Lewis said University Police will consider issuing criminal citations if tents are still up at 8:30 a.m.

— Beatrice Villaflor and Jacob Wendler, Senior Staffers

8:10 a.m.

A song with the lyric, “Vive Palestina” is being played on speakers. Some students are waving the Palestinian flag in the air.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:08 a.m.

Protesters began taking down their tents for fear of criminal citations from University Police, but have begun putting them back up. Some have started chanting “time’s up.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:04 a.m.

“Don’t do the work of the police for them,” one protester, who encouraged students not to remove their tents, said.

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

8:00 a.m.

Lewis encouraged students to pursue “a different kind of strategy to encourage safety.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

7:58 a.m.

Chief of Police and Senior Associate Vice President of Safety & Security Bruce Lewis notified students they are not in compliance with university policy requiring reservations for events on the Meadow and has asked them to remove tents. “Once the tents come down, we will reassess,” Lewis told The Daily.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

7:57 a.m.

Organizers have encouraged those here to grab coffee and bagels from a central tent on the encampment. Protesters have began chanting, “Free, free, free Palestine.”

— Beatrice Villaflor, Campus Editor

7:56 a.m.

NU Police Department is on the scene. An officer declined to comment on any plans for a potential response.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

7:48 a.m.

Students began arriving around 7 a.m. and had more than a dozen tents set up on the west end of Deering Meadow by 7:30 a.m. All students are wearing face masks.

— Jacob Wendler, Editor in Chief

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