Protesters refuse to leave Wayne State University camp

(CBS DETROIT) – Pro-Palestinian demonstrators maintain their position camp at Wayne State University Monday, despite the university saying it should be dissolved.

The encampment has been in place since last Thursday. The university asked the group to disperse, citing security concerns, but the group refused. Organizers said they plan to stay put until the university meets them on their terms.

“We are here today to defend our encampment. Because our sole and primary goal is disinvestment, and they refuse to meet with us on our own terms,” said alumnus Zaynah Jadallaa.

On Monday evening, demonstrators gathered and prepared for a possible dispersal of their encampment when they ignored the 6:30 p.m. deadline to evacuate.

“Across the country they have used tear gas, they have used other harmful methods. So we are just preparing,” Jadallaa said.

They and others say the pro-Palestinian camp is a demonstration of their right to freedom of expression.

In a message to students, faculty and staff, Kimberly Espy, president of Wayne State University, wrote: “Wayne State is a university of inclusivity that supports the freedom of speech and the right to protest. … At the same time, we must distinguish between freedom of expression of actions that violate laws, threaten health and safety, or disrupt campus operations.”

A spokesperson for Wayne State says the university asked the group to remove the camp by 6:30 PM on Monday, but they did not do so.

“It’s basically an ultimatum. Either we accept their meeting on their terms, or we have to remove the camp. And that is not acceptable,” Jadallaa said.

U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlib joined protesters at the encampment and offered her support. Organizers said they have no plans to leave.

“We will stand strong because we believe in human rights. And it is not controversial to say that we do not want to invest in war,” the organizers said.

The protesters are now asking for a meeting with the university on their terms. They request a meeting with Espy and the Board of Directors on Wednesday at 6:30 PM.