UMPD Detains Protesters and Student Journalists During Event Featuring IDF Soldiers

The University of Maryland Police Department (UMPD) detained four individuals, including two student journalists, during an event featuring soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The incident occurred on Tuesday night at Jiménez Hall, where the university’s Students Supporting Israel chapter hosted the event.

Background of the Event and Protests

Three IDF soldiers spoke at the event about their combat experiences in Gaza. Meanwhile, outside, four protesters rallied, chanting and holding signs against the event. The two student journalists, separate from other media, documented the protest without participating in it.

Details of the Detention

• The two journalists were positioned behind the protesters to capture photos and videos.
• None of the journalists were allowed entry to the event before their detention.
• The police detained the students, alleging their presence contributed to a disruption of campus order.

In a personal statement, one journalist expressed concern that their ethnicity played a role in their treatment by the officers. They noted that they were simply recording a protest and were not engaged in any disruptive behavior.

University and Police Statements

UMPD confirmed that the individuals were detained based on a Maryland education statute, which prohibits willful disturbances at educational institutions. Officers claimed the protesters were violating university policies by failing to move to the designated protest area.

Identity and Consequences

While some individuals identified themselves, one person was found unaffiliated with the university and received a denial of access. The other detained individuals included a student who faces referral to the student conduct office.

Contention Over Coverage

Throughout the detainment, the student journalists clarified their media roles but remained detained for nearly an hour. They reported that they were not asked for media credentials but were instead pressed for university IDs. Other journalists from The Diamondback were present and documented the event without facing similar scrutiny.

Response from Student Organizations

Prior to the IDF event, the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter launched a petition against it, collecting about 1,700 signatures. The petition condemned the university for allowing what they termed a platform for individuals linked to human rights violations.

• The protestors argued that hosting IDF soldiers on campus posed risks to Arab students’ safety.
• They called for the university to issue a statement condemning the event and respect the concerns of their student body.

In contrast, the Students Supporting Israel chapter defended their event, asserting that protest efforts failed to disrupt proceedings meaningfully. They criticized the protests as ineffective and pointless.

Concerns Raised by Student Organizations

Various student groups jointly issued a statement condemning both the event hosting IDF soldiers and the university’s actions. They emphasized the need for a supportive and inclusive campus environment, urging administration to acknowledge their concerns.”They stressed that allowing such events contradicts the university’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students.