News Summary
Students from California State University campuses, including Long Beach State, have initiated a hunger strike to demand divestment from Israeli institutions amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The protest, which features over 30 participants, coincides with final exams and emphasizes issues of justice and student activism. Despite health concerns, the hunger strikers remain determined to amplify their message and call for university cooperation while facing institutional resistance.
Long Beach, California — A hunger strike initiated by five students from Long Beach State has garnered attention as they join forces with students from several other California State University (CSU) campuses, including San José State, Sacramento State, and San Francisco State. This protest aims to demand divestment from Israeli institutions, particularly in light of the ongoing food crisis in Gaza exacerbated by restricted border access, as highlighted in a recent United Nations World Food Programme report.
The hunger strike began in late April and coincides with the final exam period for many CSU students. Participants are tracking their protest by marking their shirts each day, demonstrating their commitment to the cause. As their protest continues, the students recognize the potential impact on their academic performance but remain resolute in their objectives.
Among the students involved is Marcus Bode, who expressed that they felt a moral obligation to act. They noted the encouraging message from Birzeit University in Palestine, motivating them to amplify the call for action. The protesters aim to urge their respective universities to sever ties with Israeli companies, including defense contractors like Boeing, which they believe are complicit in violent actions within Gaza.
The ongoing hunger strike has seen participation numbers expand, now involving over 30 students from additional campuses such as CSU East Bay and CSU Dominguez Hills. The group underscores the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the dire conditions faced by civilians in Gaza, with reports indicating that many are struggling with extreme hunger and malnutrition.
Despite the hunger strike being a significant act of protest, California State University leadership has reiterated its position on divestment. A 2024 statement from the CSU noted that it does not plan to adjust its investment strategies based on political pressures, adding that financial decisions are guided by established policies. The CSU Chancellor’s Office has stated that the hunger strike will not influence the university’s investment policies.
As the hunger strike progresses, participating students have reported feeling drained and experiencing physical symptoms such as muscle cramps. They are taking safety precautions by consuming water with electrolytes and monitoring their vital signs every two days. The strikers are also preparing to continue their protest until their demands are formally addressed by university administrators. As of now, there has been no indication from CSU leadership regarding a meeting with student representatives.
The students participating in this hunger strike have expressed their views on free speech and activism within the university setting, calling attention to regulations they believe stifle their ability to demonstrate. They view fasting as a powerful personal protest that challenges the university’s authority over student activism.
The students’ hunger strike aligns with historical instances of hunger protests, drawing inspiration from notable hunger strikes, particularly those undertaken by Palestinian political prisoners. They assert that their protest represents a headline of solidarity with the people of Gaza, calling attention to issues of justice and humanitarian concerns.
As the situation in Gaza continues, the hunger strike serves not only to voice discontent regarding university investments but also to highlight broader humanitarian crises. Growing interest in the movement across CSU campuses suggests that the participants’ objectives are resonating with their peers, indicating a possible shift in campus discourse surrounding divestment from Israeli associated enterprises.
Students continue to call for solidarity in their mission, emphasizing that the disgraceful conditions some Palestinians endure motivate the urgency of their efforts. The hunger strike remains ongoing, as they persistently advocate for their demands amidst challenging circumstances.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
CSULB Students Begin Hunger Strike for Palestinian Solidarity
CSU Students Launch Hunger Strike for Gaza Divestment
Students at CSU Campuses Engage in Hunger Strike for Gaza
Additional Resources
- LB Current
- Wikipedia: Hunger Strike
- LB Watchdog
- Google Search: CSU hunger strike Gaza
- The Coast News
- Google Scholar: California State University hunger strike
- The Guardian
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Humanitarian Crisis
- The College Fix
- Google News: hunger strike Gaza
