UC Davis Suspends Law Student Association Over Israel Boycott Resolution

The University of California, Davis has suspended its Law Students Association (LSA) after the group passed a resolution endorsing the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel, citing violations of university policy that mandates student organizations remain viewpoint-neutral. The university seized approximately $40,000 in funding following the group's decision, which was described as discriminatory and conflicting with California law prohibiting economic discrimination based on national origin. UC Davis officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining a campus environment free of discrimination and have faced scrutiny over allegations of antisemitic harassment. The LSA's resolution aimed to boycott companies associated with Israel, which included major brands like McDonald’s and Coca-Cola. In response, the National Lawyers Guild at UC Davis condemned the administration's actions as disempowering to student collective action, while some students supported the university's move as a necessary effort to protect marginalized voices. The situation reflects broader concerns about campus climate amid ongoing tensions related to the Gaza conflict and perceptions of antisemitism in academic settings.