Early this morning, May 8, the DC Metropolitan Police Department conducted an orderly and safe operation to disperse the demonstrators from the illegal encampment on GW’s University Yard. The GW Police Department and MPD issued several warnings for the individuals to leave, and most heeded this direction. Those who remained were arrested. The charges included assault on a police officer and unlawful entry. We do not have any reports of serious injuries during this operation, and we are grateful for MPD’s assistance in this matter.
The university is open and operating normally, and final examinations are proceeding as scheduled. MPD, GW Police Department officers, and additional security personnel maintain a presence on University Yard and the surrounding area. GW staff have cleared the yard.
Through the end of Commencement on May 19, University Yard and Kogan Plaza will remain closed, as previously announced. During this time, given the heightened safety concerns related to the recent illegal demonstrations as well as the ongoing exams, all activities, including activities of free expression on campus, will require reservation through the Division for Student Affairs. In addition, no sound amplification will be permitted for such events on campus.
We will continue to update members of the community with relevant updates and operational changes impacting campus via Campus Advisories.