Syracuse University did not suspend members of #NotAgainSU for protesting, but for violating the university’s building occupation policy, an SU official said Tuesday.

#NotAgainSU, a Black student-led movement, began occupying Crouse-Hinds Hall on Monday at noon. SU issued interim suspensions to more than 30 protesters after they refused to leave the building past its closing time at 9 p.m. 

“The students were advised, on multiple occasions, that they would need to move their demonstration to spaces on campus that are open past 9 p.m.,” Interim Vice Chancellor and Provost John Liu said in an SU News release. 

Officials told protesters that remaining in Crouse-Hinds past closing would result in verbal and written warnings, Liu said. Students were also told that those who failed to comply with the warnings would be referred to SU’s Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, which could result in an interim suspension, he said.

Officials provided protesters with options for open spaces where they could continue their protest, such as Bird Library, Liu said. Bird Library is open for 24 hours. 

Students issued suspension notices can still return to residence halls and South Campus, and eat in their dining halls, Liu said. Protesters are also free to leave Crouse-Hinds at any time, he said.

Protesters would not be able to re-enter Crouse-Hinds because DPS has restricted access to the building. Initial suspension notices sent to students said they were no longer allowed on university property.

“Only the students who failed to comply with exiting the building once it closed for the evening were referred to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities for violating the Campus Disruption Policy,” Liu said.

The university has made continued efforts to address students’ demands, Liu said. #NotAgainSU presented Chancellor Kent Syverud with 19 demands in November to meet in response to racist incidents on campus. The movement issued six additional demands, amended five and retracted one Monday. 

Liu asked faculty to bring ideas regarding SU’s response to student demands to his office or to the dean of their college. The university may experience challenging moments in the classroom, he said.

“I have tremendous faith in your ability, as faculty, to navigate these challenges in a manner that demonstrates the values of dialogue, dignity, respect and a positive academic experience for all of our students,” Liu said in the statement. 

Published on February 18, 2020 at 3:02 pm

Contact Sarah: scalessa@syr.edu | @sarahalessan