Madison Reporter

Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin of the University of Wisconsin-Madison announced on May 10, 2024, that an agreement had been reached with the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) to end their encampment on Library Mall. The resolution was communicated to all students and employees at the university.

Mnookin expressed her appreciation for the hard work, engagement, and careful listening demonstrated by the community over the last ten days. She thanked her leadership team who led the dialogue process over the past week and acknowledged SJP student leaders and their faculty liaisons for their constructive engagement.

The Chancellor underscored that one of the fundamental missions of a university is to foster engagement and dialogue across differences. As she listened to concerns from various people and perspectives, she remained hopeful about moving forward together with a deep commitment to making the campus a place where all can flourish.

As part of this commitment, Mnookin emphasized adherence to free speech rules, laws, and policies that ensure open dialogue for everyone. She also stressed the importance of understanding and recognizing shared humanity.

Further details revealed that as part of the agreement, SJP agreed not to disrupt graduation ceremonies or other campus functions or reestablish an encampment on campus. They also committed to following UW–Madison rules in future activities.

While acknowledging that this has been a difficult period globally, UW–Madison leaders reiterated their support for peaceful student protest and respect for First Amendment rights. They appreciated that SJP's Gaza Solidarity Encampment was motivated by passionate feelings about devastation in Gaza but also recognized it made some members of their community uncomfortable.

In response to concerns raised by encampment organizers, campus leaders have committed to facilitating access for SJP to meet with decision-makers to discuss disclosure and investment principles. They will also enhance engagement with scholars and students impacted by war, violence, and displacement.