NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — As tensions escalate across the country over the Israel-Hamas war, protestors gathered for the first time at a Hampton Roads university.
Supports of both Palestine and Israel rallied near Christopher Newport University Tuesday evening. At one point, police officers kicked pro-Palestinian protesters off campus.
The group “Free Palestine CNU” initially planned to meet at the university’s Great Lawn. The group is not affiliated with the university.
Group organizers told 13News Now they were “ready to have a peaceful gathering for justice.”
"We are hopeful CNU will not mirror the folly of other institutions," Free Palestine CNU organizers wrote.
A CNU spokesperson sent 13News Now the following statement before protests started:
"We're aware there may be a protest. We will adhere to the university's policies regarding expressive activities..."
According to university policy, only certain outdoor spaces are available for third parties who reserve them. The Great Lawn is not listed as one of those approved spaces.
Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew and his officers staged around campus and the surrounding area. He said protestors would not be allowed on campus Tuesday. The chief said his goal is to avoid things getting out of hand.
“Situations going on around the country, I get it. People have differing opinions, I understand that. As long as everything’s peaceful," Chief Drew said.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrators ultimately moved off campus to nearby Warwick Boulevard.
“…Blatant infraction of our right to protest, our right to free speech, our right to peaceful protest. They obviously have the sprinklers on right now to deter us from even staying on campus," said one Pro-Palestinian demonstrator, who didn't wish to share his name.
The demonstrator shared why he chose to rally.
“When we look back on this, I can personally say that I stood against genocide," he said. "I know that people here will be proud of themselves for knowing they stood against genocide.”
Just a block away, another group demonstrated in support of Israel.
“So that they know we’re here and we won’t be moved," said Rabbi Eric Carlson.
Rabbi Carlson shared his point of view.
“It really breaks our heart to see the antisemitism, the hatred sweeping across our land today. There’s got to be a counter voice of truth and reality in this. So, we want to stand for peace and stand for love today," he said.
This comes roughly 24 hours after a protest at a Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond ended in police officers using tear gas and arresting demonstrators.
Another protest at Virginia Tech resulted in 82 arrests, including 53 students, a university spokesperson said Monday.