6 - Campus Crime

11 Pro-Palestinian Protesters Arrested at University of Minnesota 

On October 21st, 11 protesters were arrested during a pro-Palestinian demonstration at the University of Minnesota. Protesters were calling on the University to divest from companies with connections to Israel. According to Sahan Journal, the University has invested $5 million in Israel-based companies and U.S. defense contractors.

A sophomore from the University, Ryan Mattson, said the administration has "failed to divest from genocide," and that, "we will stay here until the University meets our demands or makes us leave." (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

At around 3 p.m., protesters gathered peacefully in front of the Coffman Memorial Union. Shortly after, the protesters moved inside Morrill Hall and began spray-painting the building, breaking windows, and barricading the exit doors. 

A photo of protesters blocking Morrill Hall (The Minnesota Star Tribune).

A SAFE-U Emergency Alert was issued at 4:34 p.m., warning students, "If you are currently in Morrill Hall and able to safely exit the building, please do so immediately. Others are advised to avoid this area until further notice."

Police began to detain protesters about an hour after the alert was sent out. They arrested 11 people and, by 9:10 p.m., sent out another alert that said Morrill Hall was clear and the situation was under control (ABC News).

A photo of previous protesters walking on the Northrop Mall in April of 2024 (ABC News).

As of right now, the amount of damage done to Morrill Hall, as well as the status of the protesters who were arrested, is unknown. The University has stated that they have launched an investigation into the incident.