In a display of unity and activism, a large number of Goucher College students and some faculty gathered outside of Mary Fisher Dining Hall to protest the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. The demonstration not only voiced concerns about the devastating genocide against the Palestinian people but also served as a platform for students to criticize the administration’s pro-Israel stance.
The protest saw students coming together to raise their voices against the atrocities in Palestine. The demonstration was characterized by a shared commitment to social justice and a call for a more empathetic campus community.
Against the backdrop of Mary Fisher Dining Hall, students took turns addressing the crowd through a megaphone, passionately articulating their perspectives on the issue, and cries of “free Palestine” could be heard after almost every speaker. Each speaker brought a unique view to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of creating understanding and empathy on campus.
The theme of unity emerged in the shared cause and the diversity of voices present. Students from various communities and academic disciplines came together to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people. This demonstration illustrated the capacity of our community to engage in open dialogue and activism, putting aside individual differences for a common cause.
There was no greater example of this than when Judaic Studies assistant professor, Maxwell Greenberg, got on the megaphone to sympathize with the Palestinian cause. Greenberg, being Jewish himself, vowed to teach from an unbiased perspective within his department.
The protest also highlighted the student body’s dissatisfaction with the administration’s pro-Israel stance. Criticisms were voiced regarding what many in the community viewed as radio silence on addressing the genocide being committed against the Palestinian people, especially when Goucher’s administration was quick to release a statement of solidarity with Israel after the Hamas attack.
Goucher College students aimed to create a space for dialogue and education through their speeches and chants. The demonstration called for increased awareness about the historical and political context of the conflict. As well as being conscious of mainstream media narratives and propaganda.
As students passionately expressed their concerns, the protest exemplified the impact of peaceful protest and collective action. The diverse range of perspectives showcased the strength that comes from understanding and the willingness to engage in open dialogue and how people can be brought together when fighting for a common cause.
The event concluded with a candlelit vigil where participants laid candles and artwork in respect of the Palestinian lives lost, as the names of martyred children were read aloud.
The coming together was an inspiring example of the community Goucher has the potential to be and should be used as a platform for more significant student input in how our college is represented. Every student has a voice, so why not use it for the better?
Analysis by Theo Efron ’26
Disclaimer: This piece was published as a student’s analysis of the events reported. The Quindecim is a space for all students within the Goucher community to express their views and beliefs. These pieces are released in the name of journalistic integrity and not in an attempt to antagonize or reflect the institution of Goucher as a whole.
