The encampment at George Washington University was cleared by Metropolitan Police early Wednesday morning after escalating tensions over two weeks.
Mayor Muriel Bowser redirected her focus from a scheduled hearing to address the campus issues, leading to the cancellation of the meeting. MPD emphasized prioritizing safety during the protest and made 33 arrests for unlawful trespassing and assault.
University officials failed to reach an agreement with protestors’ demands, leading to the end of the protest. MPD stated they would not allow further encampments on private property.
The involvement of individuals from Columbia University in New York was also confirmed. The response to the demonstration was described as apolitical by Mayor Bowser.