Judge Allows Vigil for Gaza Casualties at UMD

A federal judge has permitted the pro-Palestinian group Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) to hold a vigil on October 7 at the University of Maryland, coinciding with the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel that killed 1,200 Israelis. This ruling follows a lawsuit filed by SJP against the university, which had previously canceled the event citing safety concerns amid pressure from pro-Israel alumni. U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte found the university's actions violated SJP's First Amendment rights and stated that denying them the event was a 'deprivation' of free speech. The university must now ensure safety measures are in place while allowing the vigil to proceed, with SJP required to post a $2,500 security bond. This event is significant as it comes during a period of mourning for both the Jewish community and those affected in Gaza, with reports indicating over 41,000 Palestinian casualties since the conflict began. The situation has highlighted escalating tensions and deeply divided sentiments on campus regarding the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.