During a recent pro-Palestinian protest at the University of California, Irvine, Professor Tiffany Willoughby-Herard was among those arrested by riot police. In a video that went viral on social media, she passionately expressed her views on the situation, stating that the response to the protest was chaotic and revealed a failure in leadership.
Willoughby-Herard and 10 others are now facing misdemeanor charges, including “resisting arrest” and “failure to disperse.” The professor, who is a scholar of global and international studies, has been vocal about the excessive force used during her arrest, which resulted in injuries that continue to cause her pain.
In response to the charges, thousands of scholars from around the US and abroad have signed petitions opposing the actions taken against her. Additionally, more individuals have been charged in relation to the May protest, with arraignments scheduled in the coming weeks.
Despite facing criminal charges, Willoughby-Herard has not been disciplined by the university. However, students involved in the protest have faced repercussions, including suspensions. This has led to a lawsuit being filed against UC Irvine by five students who claim their due process rights were violated.
The charges against Willoughby-Herard have sparked outrage and organizing efforts both in the US and internationally. Many have condemned her arrest, including the American Political Science Association and over 8,000 faculty, scholars, and students who have signed an open letter calling for the charges to be dropped.
Critics of the charges argue that there is a racial component to the legal actions taken against Willoughby-Herard, who is Black. They also point out that the response to the protests has had a chilling effect on campus activism.
In response to the allegations of bias, a spokesperson for the Orange County District Attorney’s office stated that everyone arrested was treated equally under the law. The university has also emphasized its commitment to upholding free speech and peaceful protest, while also expecting compliance with all laws and policies.
Willoughby-Herard continues to speak out against the criminalization of protesters and calls for a reevaluation of how universities allocate funds and resources. She believes that militarism and genocide cannot solve social issues that require thoughtful reflection and action.
