Accusations of antisemitism on US campuses have triggered a crackdown on pro-Palestine protests, raising concerns about academic freedom and free speech, according to a recent analysis. Since the 7 October attacks, universities have suspended student groups, cancelled events, and deployed police against non-violent demonstrations, arguing that such actions protect Jewish students.
The University of Southern California cancelled its entire commencement ceremony rather than allow valedictorian Asna Tabassum to deliver a message of Palestine solidarity. Meanwhile, chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace have been suspended at multiple institutions, with PEN America criticising the lack of transparency in disciplinary decisions.
These curtailments are part of a broader rightwing project, commentators argue, citing anti-boycott laws in 38 states that target boycotts of Israel. Similar legislation has been expanded to protect fossil fuel and gun industries, shrinking space for public debate on key issues.
In March, Republican Senator Tom Cotton introduced a bill to increase penalties for rioting linked to pro-Palestine protests, while Senators Marsha Blackburn and Thom Tillis proposed making it a federal crime to block roads or highways. These moves build on laws enacted after the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, including measures allowing motorists to hit protesters with cars and barring convicted protesters from state employment or benefits.
