Join the Movement: ‘Take Back Our University’ Rally Unites Diverse Causes and Communities

On a Thursday afternoon, about 125 people gathered for the “Take Back Our University” rally at Cornell University. The march began at Ho Plaza and ended at Day Hall, where participants raised their voices for causes like the Gaza conflict, climate change, and the rights of graduate, international, and transgender students.

Organized by a coalition of groups, including the Cornell American Association of University Professors and Cornell Graduate Students United, this rally aimed to spotlight multiple issues. Professor Tracy McNulty, a key organizer, highlighted the importance of unity among various groups on campus. She stated, “We wanted to bring together different organizations that haven’t collaborated in the past.”

As they marched, protesters held signs with messages like “Stop making deals with Trump” and “Viva Palestina.” However, some bystanders voiced their opposition. One driver yelled insults, and a few students confronted the marchers, even during speeches from professors like Russell Rickford, who addressed the danger of fascism.

Professors at the event spoke passionately. Risa Lieberwitz raised concerns about academic freedom, particularly regarding funding cuts from the Trump administration. Ewa Nizalowska, president of CGSU-UE, shared fears that many graduate workers have about voicing their opinions, noting that some had faced retaliation for supporting Palestinian rights.

An anonymous international student expressed feeling unsafe speaking out, citing fears of retribution similar to those faced by others at Cornell in the past. This concern is heightened by instances of international students being targeted under the former administration, leading to chilling effects on free speech.

The rally also drew attention to the experiences of those who have faced disciplinary actions from the university. Graduate student Sriram Parasurnama, for example, was disenrolled for a previous protest but was later reinstated. Similarly, former professor Bethany Ojalehto Mays faced a ban from Cornell property for her activism but still participated in the rally.

Ahead of the demonstration, Ojalehto Mays and psychology professor Shimon Edelman emphasized the power of student organization. “Once students are organized properly, nothing can stop them,” Edelman remarked. Ojalehto Mays added that students have the power to drive change, saying, “You’re on the precipice. The future is disintegrating, and you do have great power because the university exists to serve you.”

In 2022, a survey conducted by the American College Health Association revealed that 40% of students reported feeling anxious about their ability to voice opinions on current events. This statistic underscores the importance of creating supportive environments for student expression, especially on contentious issues like those highlighted in the rally.

These collective actions at Cornell resonate with a broader pattern. Across the U.S., student protests have surged in recent years, driven by concerns around justice, climate issues, and university governance. As seen at institutions nationwide, the stakes continue to rise for students aiming to create change.

The rally at Cornell showcased not just a convergence of voices but a shared commitment to tackle pressing issues, illustrating that even in the face of challenges, the spirit of activism remains alive and impactful.



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