News Summary
A group of seven students at California State University, Long Beach, began a hunger strike on May 5, 2025, in solidarity with the Palestinian people amid a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This movement involves over 30 students across various CSU campuses, protesting what they see as university complicity in genocide, demanding divestment from military funding sources. Despite their efforts, university officials have stated that no changes will be made to investment policies. The hunger strike underscores the increasing political activism among students regarding global human rights issues.
Long Beach, California – A group of seven students from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), began a hunger strike on May 5, 2025, in solidarity with the Palestinian people amid a humanitarian crisis in Gaza exacerbated by a blockade. This initiative is part of a larger movement involving over 30 students across various California State University (CSU) campuses, including San Jose State, Sacramento State, and San Francisco State.
The students are protesting against what they perceive as the university’s complicity in genocide, calling for the divestment from weapons manufacturers and firms that contribute to military funding. As they continue their hunger strike, participants have reported experiencing adverse physical effects, such as brain fog and fatigue, particularly challenging during the critical period of final exams.
The hunger strike was organized by Max Flynt, an undergraduate from San Francisco State, as a response to the ongoing crisis in Gaza, where the United Nations’ World Food Programme indicated that severe hunger and malnutrition afflict hundreds of thousands due to restricted humanitarian aid since March 2, 2025. This situation is compounded by soaring food prices, highlighting the urgency of the crisis.
Alongside their demands for divestment, the students express concerns about the allocation of university funds towards military activities rather than towards nurturing student welfare. Following recent advocacy efforts and protests, there has been increased scrutiny of university policies regarding free speech and student activism.
The strikers have committed to their cause, stating their readiness to endure the hunger strike even if it necessitates medical intervention. They are monitoring their vital signs and consuming water and electrolytes to sustain themselves during this protest.
Despite their efforts, CSULB officials have acknowledged the students’ right to protest but have maintained that no changes would be made to investment policies as a result of the hunger strike. Similarly, the CSU Chancellor’s Office has indicated that the hunger strike will not have an influence on current policies regarding investment in firms associated with military manufacturing.
This hunger strike’s focus is a symbolic representation of the broader struggles faced by the Palestinian people. The action reflects a significant uptick in political activism among university students, who are increasingly vocal about global issues related to human rights and military funding.
As the hunger strike progresses, the movement highlights the intersection of student activism and critical social issues, prompting discussions within academic communities about ethical investment and the role of universities in addressing global crises. The hunger strikers hope to raise awareness and influence policy change, drawing attention to the severe implications of the ongoing situation in Gaza.
In conclusion, the actions taken by these CSULB students stand as a poignant reminder of the activism present in academic institutions and the potential impact that student-led initiatives can have in responding to pressing global concerns.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
CSU Students Launch Hunger Strike for Gaza Divestment
Students at CSU Campuses Engage in Hunger Strike for Gaza
Food Pantry in Fullerton Faces Urgent Shortage!
Additional Resources
- The Guardian: California State University Hunger Strike in Support of Gaza
- Wikipedia: Gaza Strip
- LB Watchdog: CSULB Students on Hunger Strike
- Google Search: California State University Hunger Strike 2025
- Mercury News: CSU Students Go on Hunger Strike
- Google Scholar: Hunger Strike California State University
- J. Weekly: Cal State’s Stance on Divestment Amid Hunger Strike
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Palestinian Authority
- Yale Daily News: Yale Students Begin Hunger Strike for Palestine
- Google News: Palestine Hunger Strike
