Tucson Standard

The University of Arizona faced significant demonstrations on April 29-30, prompting a message from President Robert C. Robbins. The protests, which involved both students and external participants, took place on the Tucson campus and were met with a firm response from university officials and law enforcement.

According to President Robbins, the protests began when organizers gathered without authorization on the University Mall, violating established campus use policies. Despite this, university administrators chose to engage in dialogue rather than dispersing the protestors immediately. They allowed the gathering to continue until 10:30 p.m., after which it disbanded without incident.

The following day saw another unauthorized assembly in the Olive Grove area of campus. Protestors erected structures and allegedly stole safety fencing from a worksite, posing risks to others. The crowd grew larger throughout the evening, leading to support from multiple law enforcement agencies including the Tucson Police Department and Pima County Sheriff's Department.

President Robbins noted that despite "repeated, respectful and clear communication," protestors continued to violate campus policies. Warnings were issued about potential arrests for unlawful assembly if they did not disperse by 10:30 p.m. However, protestors reinforced their encampment and resisted law enforcement efforts.

Law enforcement attempted to clear Park Avenue just after 11 p.m., using minimal force such as pepper balls and rubber bullets due to projectiles being thrown at officers. By approximately 2:30 a.m., the area was cleared with four individuals arrested—three for criminal trespass and one for both criminal trespass and aggravated assault against an officer.

President Robbins expressed gratitude towards law enforcement agencies for maintaining safety during these events. He emphasized that while free expression is valued at the university, violations of law or policy will not be tolerated.

In response to these incidents, stricter enforcement of campus use policies has been implemented until at least May 15. This includes prohibiting non-permitted shade coverings like canopies or tents and requiring permits for any large gatherings on campus.

Robbins stated that these measures are intended to ensure safety while allowing diverse opinions to be expressed appropriately within university guidelines.