6 AM on College Green: Penn's Pre-Dawn Sweep, 33 Arrests, and Interim President Jameson's 'Less Safe' Framing

The current encampment situation on College Green is making our campus less safe. Despite repeated efforts to engage in dialogue, the organizers of the encampment have been unwilling to negotiate in good faith with University leadership. The encampment violates Penn's policies. Individuals participating in it are trespassing and may be subject to criminal prosecution and to University disciplinary action. I urge those participating to leave voluntarily.

Early this morning, Penn Public Safety — with the assistance of the Philadelphia Police Department — took action to remove the unauthorized encampment from College Green. Thirty-three individuals were arrested, including nine Penn students. The remainder of College Green has been temporarily closed and access will be restricted to PennCard holders until further notice. Those without proper identification will be asked to leave and, if necessary, will be escorted off campus or considered trespassing. We will continue to enforce University policies that protect the safety and operations of our campus.

Following this morning's action to remove the unauthorized encampment, the University will conduct a thorough review of disciplinary processes for affected students and will continue to enforce policies prohibiting encampments and overnight structures on University property. Going forward, encampments will not be permitted on Penn property. We remain committed to the rights of free expression and peaceful protest within established University policies.