To the Editor:

I am writing to address several inaccuracies in your April 8 article covering the recent protest at Brandeis University.

Firstly, the report significantly overstated the number of initial student protesters. The demonstration on the Great Lawn began with approximately 6-8 students at 4PM, growing to a few dozen before moving to the area adjacent to the entrance. While on the Great Lawn,  the protest did not come close to 100 students as stated. Although numbers increased later, this early figure misrepresents the initial size and character of the event.

Secondly, the depiction of the protesters’ route as entirely through campus is incorrect. The protest briefly entered campus along Loop Road for about 10 minutes before moving back to an area adjacent to campus, where it largely remained.

Thirdly, the account regarding the incident involving flags is misleading. The article suggests uncertainty about police intentions. In fact, a Brandeis Student Support Team member intervened to dissuade individuals from igniting flags in the middle of the protest group.  Campus Public Safety then exited their vehicles to clear the area out of concern for safety with regard to the burning flag, with no intent to arrest protesters. No arrests occurred, nor were any attempted. Notably, the Campus use of Space Policy is clear that such a fire violates university policy, “No Fires or Fireworks: Fires, fireworks, or any other incendiary devices are not permitted on University property, without the approval of the University, and approval and presence of the Waltham Fire Department.”

Furthermore, the claim attributed to Interim President Arthur Levine—that “most of the masked protesters were not members of the Brandeis community”—is consistent with the university’s understanding. University staff members observed a significant presence of individuals coming from offsite and who appeared to be unaffiliated with Brandeis who joined the protest when it moved adjacent to campus.

Lastly, there was no disruption to campus activities. Shabbat services and other activities continued as planned. 

The smoke that triggered the fire alarm in Sherman - which automatically notifies the Waltham Fire Department to respond - was addressed without incident. This occurrence was unrelated to the protest activity.  

Brandeis University respects and upholds the rights to free expression and peaceful assembly, and remains committed to accurately representing events affecting our campus community.

We appreciate your attention to these corrections and your commitment to accurate journalism.

Sincerely,

Matthew Rushton

AVP Public Safety