From advocating for freedom of speech to advocating for the liberation of Palestine: Sixty years of student demonstrations.


In 1964, Mario Savio, a student at the University of California, Berkeley, delivered a speech urging fellow students to protest against the university's restrictions on political activities. This event marked the beginning of a tradition of student-led activism, which has continued to the present day. From civil rights and anti-Vietnam War protests to the recent demonstrations against Israel's actions in Gaza, college campuses have been a focal point for activism. These movements have often been polarizing, with some praising the courage and idealism of the protesters, while others criticized them for being misguided. The current protests have also sparked debate over the issue of when criticism of Israel crosses into antisemitism. Throughout history, student movements have been influential in achieving tangible goals, but have also faced opposition and criticism. The article also highlights the historical context of student activism, from the Civil Rights Movement to the Anti-Apartheid movement and Occupy Wall Street. It emphasizes the significant impact of student protests on national and international events, and the potential influence of the current movement on political outcomes.



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