In a show of solidarity with the people of Palestine, protesters have occupied Portland State University's (PSU) library, prompting the closure of the campus. The demonstrators, numbering in the dozens, have created a barricade and established a camp inside PSU's Millar Library, drawing attention to what they allege is a genocide occurring in Gaza.

The peaceful demonstration turned into a criminal behavior situation, according to PSU President Ann Cudd, Mayor Ted Wheeler, Police Chief Bob Day, and Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt. Speaking at a late-night news conference on Monday, they expressed their intention to prosecute the occupiers for potential felony charges, including burglary and felony criminal mischief, as well as other potential misdemeanors depending on the evidence collected by law enforcement.

Efforts are now underway to resolve the situation peacefully, with Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day working in collaboration with PSU. Meanwhile, protesters are steadfast in their demand for the complete severance of ties between the university and Boeing, citing the company's business dealings with Israel. PSU had already announced a pause on donations from Boeing until the issue can be thoroughly discussed with students.

Inside the library, a window bore the word "GAZA" painted on it, while outside, a sign suggesting the renaming of the library to "Refaat Alareer Memorial Library" was erected. The dedication is reportedly in honor of Shaima Refaat Alareer, the daughter of a prominent Palestinian poet, who lost her life alongside her family in an Israeli attack in Gaza.

"We are here in solidarity with the people of Palestine who are fighting for their freedom, and we're here in solidarity with the student encampment," stated Willoughby Cooke, representing Ceasefire Chorus PDX.

While the protest has garnered support from various participants, some students express concern over its potential escalation. Carlos Canchola, a student at PSU, voiced worry about the situation spiraling out of control, fearing that the unrest in the library could extend throughout the entire campus.

Monday's rally and protest, which drew a sizable crowd of hundreds, was organized by individuals unaffiliated with PSU. Bob Horenstein, representing the Jewish Federation of Portland, expressed concern about certain messages spray-painted on the property, particularly the word "intifada." He emphasized that for the Jewish community, it serves as a call to violence against Jewish people, as it references a violent terrorist wave in the early 2000s that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,000 Israelis.

While interpretations of the word "intifada" differ, some argue that it denotes a "shaking off" or civil uprising.

PSU remains closed as authorities work toward a peaceful resolution and engage in ongoing discussions with the protesters.