In a powerful display of solidarity, Latino students at Cal State Los Angeles have joined the growing pro-Palestinian movement that has swept college campuses across the country. Encamped on a stretch of grass next to the school gymnasium since May 1, these students are committed to staying until their demands are met: divestment from all investments with Israel, boycotting organizations with ties to the country, and advocating for a permanent cease-fire in Gaza.

The encampment, happening at a commuter school on the Eastside with a blue-collar, Latino-majority student body, has surprised some who expected these students to be too busy to participate in protests, let alone live in tents for days. However, it is a testament to the strength of their convictions and the tradition of activism that runs deep within the school.

Latinos who have not previously been politically active are now attending rallies to express their support for Palestinians. Activists have even pushed Latino-majority cities like Bell Gardens and Cudahy to pass cease-fire resolutions. Demonstrations, both bilingual and impassioned, have been organized from Boyle Heights to Santa Ana, while social media has been flooded with posts drawing parallels between Israel's treatment of Palestinians and how the U.S. has treated Latin America.

To provide support to the students, a group led by Valeria Mena, a volunteer with Casa Zamora, a community space in Zamora Park, made a supply run to Cal State L.A. The trunk of Mena's SUV, cleaned out to make room, was filled with essential items such as board games, water jugs, soccer balls, and food. The group also purchased safety goggles, zip ties, blankets, and fire-resistant gloves from Walmart.

The arrival of the group at Cal State L.A. was met with a sense of community. The parking lot resembled a Home Depot as numerous individuals brought in supplies like safety vests, plywood, blankets, sleeping bags, and first-aid kits. Zhao Feng Ye, a participant helping with the unloading, spoke about the significance of the support from adults, stating that seeing the next generation take a stand against large institutions was powerful and inspiring.

This movement holds even more significance as many of these Latino students are following in the footsteps of previous student activists who fought for social justice causes. One alumna, Diaz, recalled her own involvement in blocking traffic after Donald Trump's presidential victory in 2016. The involvement of community members and alumni adds to the sense of unity in this ongoing struggle.

Pedro Gonzalez, a UCLA graduate who witnessed the violent clash between police and protestors at his alma mater's pro-Palestinian encampment, expressed his support by helping gather supplies for Cal State L.A. He emphasized the importance of not turning a blind eye to the suffering in Gaza and commended the students for their peaceful exercise of free speech.

As this movement continues to attract attention nationally, it serves as a reminder that student demonstrations on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict reflect broader global concerns. The activism of these Latino students should not be taken lightly, as it holds significance not only for them but for all individuals invested in justice and peace.

In a time of heightened political consciousness and increasing social engagement, the pro-Palestinian movement at Cal State L.A. presents a powerful image of unity and determination. These students have shown that they are committed to pushing for change and urging their institutions to reflect their values in both investments and actions.