Northwestern president coming under fire for handling of pro-Palestinian campus protests

tent encampment at Northwestern
Demonstrators at a tent encampment located on Northwestern's Deering Meadow on April 26, 2024. Photo credit Nancy Harty

EVANSTON (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - Northwestern’s president is defending the university’s agreement with pro-Palestinian protesters while some Jewish organizations call for his resignation.

President Michael Schill said he’s proud of the university for being able to reach an agreement that he calls a “sustainable de-escalated path forward” that focuses on safety for all students.

“Jewish students must feel safe walking past Deering Meadow and everywhere on our campus,” Schill said. “At the same time, members of our community who feel strongly about what is happening in Gaza must be able to peacefully express their views.”

The university released a video statement of the president on Monday, the day before the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and some other Jewish groups called for his resignation.

They said Schill normalized what they see as protesters’ hatred against Jewish students and is therefore unfit to lead the school.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Nancy Harty