Negotiated resolution of UWM protest a victory for peace, model for needed change

Contact: Senator Chris Larson
T: (608) 266-7505
E: justin.bielinski@legis.wisconsin.gov 

May 13, 2024

~~~FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE~~~

Milwaukee, WI - “As an alumnus of UW-Milwaukee and the state senator representing the campus, I am proud that Chancellor Mark Mone, UWM leadership, and student organizers were able to come to an agreement to end the protest encampment. This victory for student protestors was a testament to the peaceful, principled, and determined actions of young people who chose to assume a leadership role in a crucial national conversation.

“Despite the efforts of some politicians who used the protests as an opportunity to sow fear and disinformation, student organizers kept the focus on ensuring UWM cut formal ties with groups supporting Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s illegal and genocidal war against Palestinian civilians that has left 35,000 dead, two thirds of them women and children.

“The position taken by student protestors against the war in Gaza is one that is shared by a majority of Americans. We do not want to see our tax dollars be used to violate American law and to exacerbate a famine. President Biden has heard this message, and in a major policy shift, announced the U.S. would not provide Israel with munitions if they chose to launch a large-scale attack in Rafah, and that Israel must facilitate delivery of humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians affected by the ongoing war.

“Islamophobia and antisemitism have no place in this world, and to that end, I hope that a ceasefire can be reached and new leadership will emerge to negotiate a two-state solution. An independent Palestinian state will be critical to building a lasting peace in Israel and the surrounding region.

“I am proud of the brave young people at UWM for standing up for their beliefs and pushing for a more just and peaceful world.”