The longest sit-in protest in Stanford University history has ended peacefully. “Sit In to Stop Genocide” began their student-led protest more than 115 days ago with demands the university leadership publicly support a ceasefire in Gaza, as well as a boycott, divestment, and sanction of Israeli companies, among others. 

Students have been consistently camping in tents and gathering outside of White Plaza, despite university threats of legal and disciplinary action, since October 20, while holding numerous rallies, vigils, panel discussions, and other community engaged activities in an effort to bring attention to the Israel-Hamas War. Another student-led group called The Blue and White Tent, self-described “proud Zionists” who organized in response to rising antisemitism since the start of the war, have also occupied space in the same area.  

Last week, in a signed agreement with university officials, “Sit In to Stop Genocide” student representatives agreed to dismantle and disband the camp in exchange for two meetings allowing the students to discuss their concerns. 

During those discussions student representatives presented a range of demands, and according to an online statement from the university, Stanford University President Richard Saller agreed to raise, though not directly advocate for, the following with the Board of Trustees: (1) the issue of investment transparency, (2) the issue of divestment from weapons manufacturers and military contractors, and (3) the issue of adding student seats to the Special Committee on Investment Responsibility and any ad hoc committees created by the SCIR. (The request is that students added would be 25% of the committee and elected to their position.)