COLUMBUS, Ohio — A peaceful protest at Ohio State University’s campus Thursday evening turned into chaos as protesters were engaged in prayer, according to State Representative Munira Abdullahi.
“It completely escalated for no reason other than students peacefully exercising their first amendment right and the rest of them praying,” she said.
Abdullahi can be seen on video, taken by her sister Rahma, being pushed by police as they move in on the protesters.
“We were supporting the students, a lot of us were protecting the fellow students who were praying and the police kept pushing advancing and pulling, pulling scarves, I saw them grab a girl by her hair, they slammed minors and students to the ground, we sustained some injuries. I have some bruised ribs right now,” she said.
Both campus police and state troopers responded to the protest Thursday evening, eventually arresting 36 people, including 16 students, according to a spokesperson for the university.
“It’s freedom of speech, I don't know why that was such a big bother,” Rahma said.
A spokesperson said Ohio State does not allow camping or overnight events.
The protesting has created tension on campus between some students.
“I think a lot of, myself included, a lot of Jewish students are a bit intimidated, fearful and a bit tired,” said Jeremy Davis, president of Ohio State University Hillel. “I think a lot of Jewish students just want to finish finals and go off and relax.”
It is unclear if there are plans for more protesting, but if it continues, Rep. Abdullahi and her sister say they plan to be there to ensure students’ First Amendment rights are protected.
“Universities have historically been a place where students have learned about justice and have learned how to maneuver the world and speak up for justice,” she said.
Abdullahi released a statement about the situation, saying in part, "What I witnessed and how myself and other demonstrators were treated was horrific and remains to be both physically and mentally painful. What was a calm and respectful protest was quickly escalated by police officers dressed in riot gear. They surrounded us at a moment when we were supporting students who were conducting prayer. I was grabbed by my headscarf. I was pushed toward the ground on to students. Ultimately, I sustained painful bruising around my ribs and midsection.
I believe there was absolutely no reason for the police to respond the way they did. We posed no threat to them or anyone else. We were simply making our voices peacefully heard for the millions of Palestinians who have no voice of their own right now."