University Besieged by Violent Protests Weighs Crackdown Tools
The University of Washington is considering tougher student conduct measures after more than two years of chaotic Gaza war-inspired protests.
TL;DR
- University of Washington is considering tougher student conduct measures.
- Proposed changes target masked rioters, expand 'disruption' and 'vandalism' definitions, and add 'doxing' as prohibited conduct.
- These measures follow over two years of Gaza war-inspired protests, including tent encampments and building takeovers.
- Protests have involved unlawful encampments, obstruction, assaults, and vandalism.
- The university previously reached an agreement with the Education Department regarding its response to antisemitism, which the Trump administration deemed lenient.
- Concealing identity during prohibited conduct would be an aggravating factor.
- Hindering law enforcement and campus officials would be added to prohibited conduct.
- Students occupying property without permission who refuse to leave could be held accountable.
- Vandalism definition expanded to include misuse of property.
- Privileges like graduation ceremonies could be withheld.
- Masked activists vandalized a former university president's home and car.
- Recent protests involved breaking into a building, blocking entrances, and setting a dumpster on fire.
- Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced a three-agency investigation into the university's handling of recent events.
- Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon initiated a civil rights investigation into UW's handling of antisemitism.