Campus protests and the first amendment

What this episode covers

Protests are breaking out throughout the nation in opposition to the war between Israel and Hamas and the role the U.S. plays in it.  At Indiana University, students and faculty are pressuring the university to divest from Israel. IU Divestment Coalition spokesperson Bryce Greene said the group hopes to remain in Dunn Meadow until their demands are met. Read more: Pro-Palestine protestors arrested at IU Protestors set up over a dozen tents around 11 a.m. Thursday. A change in policy by an ad hoc committee created by IU administration Wednesday updated assembly policy to only allow pre-approved temporary or permanent structures like tents. It also prohibits signs and posters. IU president Pamela Whitten said in a letter to faculty Thursday night “the change was posted online and at Dunn Meadow (Thursday) morning, and participants were told repeatedly that they were free to stay and protest, but that any tent would need to be dismantled.” Thirty-three people were transported to the Monroe County Jail on an IU bus, according to the IU Police Department. IU has allowed temporary structures without prior approval in Dunn Meadow since 1969.  This week on Noon Edition, we'll talk with experts to discuss the first amendment and what students, faculty and citizens need to know about protests on campuses.  You can follow us on X @WFIUWTIUNews or join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected]. Guests Josh Bleisch is an attorney with FIRE and an IU law school alum. Steve Sanders is the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Professor of Law at IU’s Maurer School of Law, and Val Nolan Faculty Fellow. Cali Lichter is a reporter with WTIU News.