Sen. Sanders introduces resolution to support protesters

Published: May. 8, 2024 at 6:11 AM EDT|Updated: May. 8, 2024 at 10:34 AM EDT
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WASHINGTON (WCAX) - Student protesters are getting support from Washington as Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders calls on the Senate to protect their First Amendment rights.

It comes as pro-Palestian encampments continue at the University of Vermont and other colleges across the country.

Sanders introduced a resolution after he said another senator’s policy didn’t go far enough to protect students from bigotry and violence. He also urged the government to listen to peaceful protesters, saying the American people agree with some of the core goals of demonstrators.

“The fact of the matter is that 67% of Americans support the United States calling for a ceasefire, according to the latest polling, and 60% oppose sending more weapons to Israel. So no, it is not just protesters on college campuses who are upset about U.S. policy with regard to Israel and Gaza. Increasingly, the American people want an end to U.S. complicity in the humanitarian disaster which is taking place,” said Sanders, I-Vermont.

Sanders’ resolution condemns the rise of any form of discrimination in higher education and affirms the support of Congress for the First Amendment and the right to freedom of speech, dissent and protest. It also ensures that schools use Title IX to make sure students aren’t discriminated against for race, color or national origin. It also urges schools and government leaders to make sure students’ civil rights to peaceful protest are protected.