On May 5, 2025, the University of Washington (UW) in Seattle became the focal point of a significant pro-Palestinian protest. Organized by the student group Students United for Palestinian Equality and Return (SUPER-UW), demonstrators occupied the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building, demanding the university sever ties with Boeing due to its military contracts linked to the conflict in Gaza. The protest escalated, leading to the arrest of approximately 30 individuals and sparking widespread discussions on campus and beyond.
The Occupation: Protesters Take Over Engineering Building
The demonstration commenced shortly before the building’s scheduled closure at 5 p.m. Protesters, many with covered faces, entered the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building—partially funded by a $10 million donation from Boeing—and began their occupation. They blocked entrances and exits, barricaded doors with furniture, and hung banners from windows. Outside, fires were ignited in two dumpsters, and access to nearby streets was obstructed.
Law Enforcement Response and Arrests
By 10:30 p.m., law enforcement, including the Washington State Patrol’s Rapid Deployment Teams, campus police, and Seattle police, initiated efforts to disperse the protest. Around 11 p.m., officers entered the building, leading to the arrest of about 30 individuals. Charges filed included trespassing, property destruction, disorderly conduct, and conspiracy. The university stated that any students among those arrested would also face disciplinary actions through the Student Conduct Office.
Protesters’ Demands and Symbolic Actions
SUPER-UW’s occupation was a direct challenge to UW’s association with Boeing, criticizing the aerospace company’s military contracts and their implications in the Gaza conflict. The group called for the university to cut all ties with Boeing and proposed renaming the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building after Shaban al-Dalou, a teenage engineering student reportedly killed in an airstrike in Gaza. In their manifesto, SUPER-UW linked their actions to a broader student movement advocating for Palestinian rights and expressed support for the October 7, 2023, attacks carried out by Hamas.
University and Community Reactions
UW condemned the occupation, labeling it illegal and denouncing statements made by SUPER-UW as antisemitic. The university emphasized its commitment to opposing antisemitism and maintaining campus safety. The UW Jewish Alumni Association expressed disappointment in the administration’s handling of the situation, highlighting concerns over campus safety and the rise of antisemitic sentiments.
Broader Context: Nationwide Campus Protests
The events at UW are part of a larger wave of pro-Palestinian protests across U.S. college campuses. In 2024, over 3,100 protesters were arrested on more than 60 campuses nationwide. Demonstrations have included demands for universities to divest from companies linked to the Israeli government and military, with Boeing frequently cited due to its defense contracts.
Ongoing Developments and University Stance
As of now, UW has not confirmed whether those arrested were students but has stated that any identified students will face disciplinary proceedings. The university maintains its position against illegal occupations and emphasizes its dedication to campus safety and inclusivity. The incident underscores the complexities universities face in balancing free expression with campus security and community standards.
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